26266, Upperglade, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26266, Upperglade, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 26266 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 26266 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 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26266. 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 107 health care providers accessible to residents in 26266, Upperglade, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26266 and Primary Care Availability in Upperglade

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP code 26266, specifically focusing on the town of Upperglade, is crucial for understanding the community's capacity to manage hypertension. This analysis, framed as a "Hypertension Score," will consider several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of any hypertension management strategy is access to primary care. In Upperglade, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures require up-to-the-minute data, a low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, signals potential challenges. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, limited choices, and difficulty establishing consistent care, all of which can negatively impact blood pressure control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved outcomes. The actual number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code is fundamental to this assessment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of available primary care practices is paramount. "Standout practices" are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes implementing evidence-based protocols for diagnosis and treatment, providing patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and offering readily available follow-up appointments. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as tracking patient outcomes and implementing strategies to improve adherence to medication, would score highly. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other allied health professionals within a practice also enhances its ability to provide holistic care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, particularly in rural areas like Upperglade. Its adoption by local practices is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care and adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape. The availability of user-friendly platforms and the integration of telemedicine into existing workflows are key considerations.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension is also essential. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making effective management more challenging. The presence of mental health resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices is therefore a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address underlying mental health issues contributing to hypertension. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals work collaboratively with primary care physicians, are particularly beneficial.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, is also relevant, although not directly within the scope of primary care. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients, is a factor to consider. A robust referral network allows for timely access to advanced diagnostic testing and specialized treatment options when necessary. This is especially important for patients with complex cases or those who are not responding to standard treatment.

Furthermore, the availability of affordable medications is critical. Practices that actively work with patients to navigate insurance coverage, identify cost-effective medication options, and provide access to patient assistance programs contribute to improved outcomes. The existence of local pharmacies and their accessibility is also a factor.

In assessing the Hypertension Score, it's important to consider the broader context of Upperglade. Factors such as the demographics of the population (age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status), the prevalence of hypertension, and the availability of community resources (e.g., exercise programs, healthy food options) all influence the overall picture. A practice may score highly in terms of clinical care but face challenges due to external factors.

To summarize, the Hypertension Score is a composite metric reflecting the ability of the healthcare system in ZIP code 26266 to effectively manage hypertension. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. A high score indicates strong access to comprehensive care, while a low score suggests areas for improvement.

This analysis provides a general framework. To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Upperglade and to visualize the distribution of resources, including the locations of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer detailed geographic representations of healthcare data, allowing for a visual and interactive exploration of the community's healthcare resources.