26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 26228 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 0.00 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 26228 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26228. 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 1,810 health care providers accessible to residents in 26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Kanawha Head & ZIP Code 26228

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of hypertension management within the Kanawha Head community, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in relation to ZIP code 26228. Our evaluation considers factors crucial to effective hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all vital components of a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The primary focus is on evaluating the healthcare landscape within the designated area. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance hypertension management outcomes. This analysis will not only look at the raw numbers but also delve into the qualitative aspects of care, such as patient experience and the integration of preventative strategies.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most fundamental aspects of hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 26228 serves as a critical indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less effective management of chronic conditions like hypertension.

To determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio, we would need access to current data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the population size. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the West Virginia Board of Medicine would be consulted. This data would be combined to calculate the ratio, providing a clear picture of the availability of primary care services.

The analysis would also investigate the geographical distribution of primary care practices within the area. Are practices concentrated in specific locations, potentially creating disparities in access for residents in more rural or underserved areas? This spatial analysis is essential to understanding the true accessibility of care.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence in Hypertension Management:**

Beyond the raw numbers, identifying practices that excel in hypertension management is crucial. This involves evaluating several factors, including the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and the implementation of innovative approaches.

We would investigate practices that have demonstrated a commitment to patient-centered care, with a focus on preventative strategies and lifestyle modifications. Practices that actively monitor blood pressure, provide personalized treatment plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments would be considered exemplary. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and data analytics to track patient outcomes and identify areas for improvement would also be a significant factor.

Furthermore, we would look for practices that actively engage patients in their care, empowering them to take control of their health. This includes providing educational materials, offering support groups, and encouraging regular communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap in Access:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in ZIP code 26228 is a critical factor in evaluating the effectiveness of hypertension management.

The analysis would assess the extent to which primary care practices offer telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially overcome geographical barriers, reduce travel time for patients, and increase the frequency of follow-up appointments.

The availability of telehealth services for specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, would also be considered. Access to specialist consultations via telemedicine can provide patients with more comprehensive care and improve overall health outcomes. The adoption of telehealth is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component of Holistic Care:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and overall health. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of effective hypertension management.

The analysis would investigate the availability of mental health services within the community, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. We would assess whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers.

The availability of mental health support groups and educational programs would also be considered. A holistic approach to hypertension management recognizes the importance of addressing both physical and mental well-being. The integration of mental health services is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to providing comprehensive care.

**Overall Hypertension Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of the factors discussed above, an overall hypertension score would be assigned to the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26228. This score would reflect the availability of primary care services, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the access to mental health resources.

The analysis would conclude with specific recommendations for improving hypertension management in the community. These recommendations might include:

* Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area.
* Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by more practices.
* Promoting the integration of mental health services into primary care.
* Supporting the development of patient education programs.
* Facilitating collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations.

The ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve the health and well-being of residents in Kanawha Head and the surrounding areas.

**Enhance Your Understanding with CartoChrome Maps:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26228 and the surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed maps that allow you to visualize physician locations, access to healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and identify areas where improvements are needed. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the maps and gain valuable insights into the healthcare landscape.