26217, Diana, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26217, Diana, West Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 58.04 percent of the residents in 26217 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.04 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 26217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 201 health care providers accessible to residents in 26217, Diana, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Diana, WV (ZIP Code 26217)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the overall environment for managing hypertension within the Diana, West Virginia area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 26217. The goal is to assess the landscape for primary care physicians, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and ultimately, determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the community's capacity to effectively address this critical health concern.

The foundation of successful hypertension management rests on accessible and readily available primary care. In Diana, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. Without access to publicly available data on the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within 26217, a definitive ratio is difficult to calculate. However, based on general demographic data and the known challenges of rural healthcare, it's reasonable to infer that the ratio likely presents a significant challenge. This suggests that residents may face longer wait times for appointments and potentially have to travel considerable distances to access care.

The presence of standout practices is critical. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management are those that offer a holistic approach. This includes not only medication management but also patient education, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise), and regular monitoring. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into their specific service offerings, including the availability of registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and access to on-site blood pressure monitoring and other diagnostic tools.

Telemedicine, in the context of hypertension management, offers a potentially transformative solution, particularly in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and educational sessions. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care physicians in 26217 is a vital factor. Assessing this requires investigating the practices' use of telehealth platforms, their willingness to provide virtual consultations, and the availability of remote monitoring devices.

The interconnectedness of mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. This involves evaluating the accessibility of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and the availability of mental health support groups or programs.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires gathering information from various sources. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing online directories, and examining public health data. The process involves a combination of desk research and potentially direct outreach to understand the specific services offered and the challenges faced by patients and providers.

Based on the available information, the Hypertension Score for Diana, WV (26217) would likely be moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The challenges of rural healthcare, including potentially limited physician-to-patient ratios and the need to travel for care, would weigh heavily on the score. The adoption of telemedicine, which could mitigate some of these challenges, would be a significant factor in raising the score. The availability of mental health resources, which are essential for comprehensive hypertension management, would also play a critical role.

The lack of readily available public data on physician counts, telemedicine adoption rates, and specific mental health resources makes it challenging to provide a precise score. However, based on the general understanding of rural healthcare challenges, the score would likely reflect the need for improvement in several key areas. This includes increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health services.

To improve the Hypertension Score, community-based initiatives are crucial. These could include programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as walking groups or cooking classes. Furthermore, partnerships between healthcare providers, local pharmacies, and community organizations can enhance patient education and support.

The role of technology is also critical. Telemedicine platforms can be utilized to provide remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Mobile apps can assist patients in tracking their blood pressure, medication adherence, and lifestyle factors.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and vascular screenings, is also important. Patients with hypertension may require specialized care for related conditions.

The Hypertension Score is not static. It is a reflection of the current healthcare landscape and can change over time as new resources become available and existing services evolve. Regular assessments are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, the effective management of hypertension in Diana, WV (26217) requires a multifaceted approach. It requires addressing the challenges of rural healthcare, promoting the adoption of technology, and expanding access to mental health services. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all vital components of a successful hypertension management strategy.

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