26257, Coalton, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26257, Coalton, West Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.22 percent of the residents in 26257 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.32 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 26257 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 218 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26257. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 521 health care providers accessible to residents in 26257, Coalton, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Coalton, WV (ZIP Code 26257)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26257, encompassing Coalton, West Virginia, reveals a complex interplay of factors impacting hypertension management. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the available resources, physician accessibility, and overall quality of care, ultimately assigning a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" based on observed strengths and weaknesses. While a precise score requires access to granular, proprietary data, this assessment leverages publicly available information and reasonable assumptions to paint a comprehensive picture.

The most immediate challenge facing Coalton residents seeking hypertension care is the limited availability of primary care physicians. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, and this is likely a significant factor in this region. A low physician-to-patient ratio translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. This scarcity necessitates a proactive approach to resource utilization and innovative healthcare delivery models.

A critical component of hypertension management is regular monitoring and medication adherence. This requires consistent access to primary care providers who can prescribe medication, monitor blood pressure, and provide lifestyle counseling. The absence of readily available primary care exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension.

Examining the existing healthcare infrastructure, we must consider the presence and capabilities of local clinics and hospitals. Are there established primary care practices within the ZIP code or in neighboring communities easily accessible to Coalton residents? The reputation and quality of these practices are paramount. Do they offer comprehensive hypertension management programs, including blood pressure monitoring, dietary guidance, and exercise recommendations?

Standout practices, if any exist, would be those demonstrating a commitment to proactive hypertension management. This includes actively screening patients for hypertension, implementing evidence-based treatment protocols, and providing ongoing patient education. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage medication refills, and facilitate communication with specialists would be particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect to consider. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap and provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Does Coalton have access to telemedicine services for hypertension management, such as remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations with cardiologists, and online educational resources? The availability and accessibility of these services can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making effective mental health support essential. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, accessible to Coalton residents? Do local healthcare providers offer integrated mental health services, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being? The availability of these resources directly impacts the overall effectiveness of hypertension care.

Furthermore, the presence of community-based resources plays a vital role. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there programs promoting healthy eating and exercise? The availability of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition and improve their overall quality of life.

The lack of readily available data regarding specific practice performance, patient outcomes, and telemedicine adoption makes it difficult to assign a definitive "Hypertension Score" to Coalton. However, based on the likely challenges of physician shortages and the need for improved access to care, the hypothetical score would likely be moderate, with significant room for improvement. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited primary care access and the potential for a lack of specialized hypertension management programs.

To improve the hypothetical score, several key areas require attention. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area is paramount. This could involve incentivizing physicians to practice in rural areas, expanding telehealth services, and leveraging the skills of nurse practitioners and physician assistants.

Enhanced telemedicine adoption is crucial. This includes providing patients with access to remote blood pressure monitoring devices, virtual consultations with specialists, and online educational resources. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and allow patients to receive timely treatment.

Integrating mental health services into primary care practices is also essential. This can involve screening patients for mental health conditions, providing access to therapists and psychiatrists, and educating patients about the link between mental and physical health.

Promoting community-based resources, such as support groups and healthy lifestyle programs, can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. These resources can also provide valuable social support and improve overall well-being.

Improving the "Hypertension Score" for Coalton requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the challenges of rural healthcare. This includes increasing physician access, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, and promoting community-based support.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Coalton and surrounding areas, including precise physician locations, practice details, and access to care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to analyze physician density, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about healthcare access.