26250, Belington, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26250, Belington, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.19 percent of the residents in 26250 has some form of health insurance. 45.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.15 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 26250 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26250. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 957 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,093 health care providers accessible to residents in 26250, Belington, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Belington, WV (ZIP Code 26250)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of primary care resources and their potential impact on hypertension management within Belington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26250). The focus is on evaluating the availability and quality of care, particularly as it relates to the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of hypertension. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in improving hypertension control.

The foundation of any effective hypertension management program is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Belington, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Determining this ratio requires accessing publicly available data on the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which can negatively impact hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved outcomes. The exact ratio needs to be calculated using the most current population data and physician listings, but this is the fundamental starting point.

Beyond simple availability, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data tracking and patient communication. Practices that actively monitor blood pressure, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and offer medication management support are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are also highly desirable. The presence of certified hypertension specialists within a practice would significantly elevate its standing.

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Belington. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in the area should be carefully examined. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and the use of secure messaging platforms for patient communication. Telemedicine can help overcome geographical barriers, improve medication adherence, and provide timely support for patients managing hypertension. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine technologies are likely to offer more convenient and accessible care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly elevate blood pressure and hinder effective hypertension management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Belington area is a crucial component of a comprehensive assessment. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the availability of mental health support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are better positioned to provide holistic care and improve patient outcomes. The integration of behavioral health specialists into primary care settings, known as integrated behavioral health, is particularly beneficial.

To further refine the analysis, it's essential to investigate specific practices within the ZIP code. Researching individual practices involves gathering information on their staff, services offered, and patient satisfaction levels. This can be achieved through online reviews, practice websites, and publicly available data. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management, patient education, and preventative care is critical. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) within a practice would also be a positive indicator, given the frequent comorbidity of diabetes and hypertension.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the accessibility of specialty care. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for hypertension management, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is often necessary for patients with complex cases or complications. Assessing the availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance of Belington is essential. The presence of local pharmacies with medication adherence programs and support services also contributes to the overall quality of care.

The overall “Hypertension Score” for Belington (26250) is a composite metric. It would be calculated by weighting the various factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio would be given a significant weight, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. The quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would also be weighted, reflecting their impact on patient outcomes. The final score would provide a valuable benchmark for evaluating the current state of hypertension management in the area and identifying areas for improvement.

This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the landscape of hypertension management in Belington. The specific scores and rankings would be generated through a rigorous data collection and analysis process. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare resources available in Belington are effectively meeting the needs of the community. The goal is to identify opportunities to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the health and well-being of individuals managing hypertension.

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