26203, Erbacon, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26203 has some form of health insurance. 97.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 9.28 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 26203 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26203. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 193 health care providers accessible to residents in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26203 and Primary Care Availability in Erbacon**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26203, which encompasses Erbacon, West Virginia, requires a nuanced approach. A "Hypertension Score" is a hypothetical metric, but for the purpose of this analysis, it will encompass factors impacting the diagnosis, management, and overall control of hypertension within the defined geographic area. This analysis will evaluate physician availability, access to care, and supporting resources, ultimately assigning a relative score based on these criteria.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Erbacon, being a small community, likely faces challenges in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and inadequate follow-up care for individuals with hypertension. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates better access to primary care physicians, facilitating early detection and ongoing management. Determining the exact ratio requires specific data, but the rural nature of Erbacon suggests a potentially unfavorable ratio compared to more urbanized areas.

Beyond physician numbers, the presence of specific types of primary care providers is crucial. The availability of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners directly impacts the accessibility of care. Each provider type offers a unique skillset, and a diverse mix contributes to a more comprehensive healthcare system. A lack of specialists, particularly cardiologists, can necessitate referrals to distant locations, creating barriers to care for patients in need of specialized hypertension management.

Standout practices, if any, within ZIP code 26203 would be those demonstrating a commitment to hypertension management. This could include practices actively screening patients for hypertension, utilizing evidence-based treatment guidelines, and employing innovative approaches to patient education and support. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is essential for tracking patient data, monitoring blood pressure readings, and facilitating efficient communication between healthcare providers. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to identify and manage patients with hypertension effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. In rural areas like Erbacon, telemedicine offers a valuable solution to overcome geographical barriers to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing access to specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring of blood pressure, would receive a higher score on the "Hypertension Score." The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation, and this factor must be considered in the Erbacon context.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is essential for holistic patient care. Practices that integrate mental health support into their hypertension management programs are better positioned to address the multifaceted needs of their patients. The presence of mental health professionals, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referral networks, contributes positively to the "Hypertension Score."

Community resources also play a role. The availability of local pharmacies, support groups, and educational programs can empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension. Pharmacies can provide medication counseling and blood pressure monitoring services. Support groups offer a platform for patients to share experiences and learn from each other. Educational programs can equip patients with the knowledge and skills necessary to make lifestyle changes that support blood pressure control.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in 26203 and primary care availability in Erbacon requires a comprehensive data collection process. This would involve gathering information on physician-to-patient ratios, the types of providers available, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption rates, mental health integration, and community resources. Each of these factors would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance, and a final score would be calculated.

Based on the likely characteristics of Erbacon, the "Hypertension Score" is likely to be moderate. The rural setting and potential for limited resources may present challenges in accessing comprehensive hypertension care. However, the dedication of local providers, coupled with the potential for telemedicine implementation, could mitigate some of these challenges.

The analysis would also consider the role of insurance coverage. The availability of health insurance, including coverage for hypertension medications and related services, directly impacts access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs would receive a higher score.

Another factor to consider is the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers. Effective hypertension management requires a culturally competent approach, recognizing the unique needs and preferences of diverse patient populations. Practices that prioritize cultural sensitivity and provide language assistance services would be better positioned to serve the community.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static metric; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments and updates are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to create a healthcare system that effectively addresses the needs of patients with hypertension, ensuring they receive timely diagnoses, appropriate treatment, and ongoing support.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 26203 and Erbacon, and to better understand the distribution of resources and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members.