26280, Mill Creek, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26280, Mill Creek, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.65 percent of the residents in 26280 has some form of health insurance. 66.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.41 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 26280 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26280. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 377 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 378 health care providers accessible to residents in 26280, Mill Creek, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Mill Creek, WV (ZIP Code 26280)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services in Mill Creek, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26280), focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management. A "Hypertension Score" is implicitly derived, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension within this specific geographic area.

Mill Creek, a small community nestled in Randolph County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical care, making the role of primary care physicians (PCPs) particularly crucial. The success of hypertension management hinges on consistent access to PCPs for regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

One of the primary determinants of a strong Hypertension Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data on this metric is difficult to obtain without detailed, real-time information. However, publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimations. Randolph County, and therefore Mill Creek, likely faces a physician shortage compared to more urban areas. This scarcity impacts the ability of patients to secure timely appointments and receive consistent care. A higher patient-to-physician ratio suggests potential delays in diagnosis, treatment initiation, and follow-up care, all detrimental to effective hypertension management.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices in Mill Creek are critical. Are there any standout practices? Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Practices that prioritize patient access and convenience contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. A practice that actively engages in preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings and patient education, would also receive a higher rating. The presence of registered nurses or other support staff trained in hypertension management further enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth platforms contribute significantly to a higher Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians more frequently and receive timely interventions, even when physical visits are challenging. Its effectiveness is dependent on the availability of reliable internet connectivity, a potential limitation in some rural areas.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Practices that recognize the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This could involve on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or the use of screening tools to identify patients who might benefit from mental health support. The availability of these resources positively impacts the Hypertension Score.

The quality of patient education is another important consideration. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications contribute to better patient outcomes. This includes providing educational materials, offering group classes, and utilizing digital tools to enhance patient understanding and adherence to treatment plans.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in Mill Creek, WV, suggests a potential need for improvement in several areas. The likely physician shortage presents a significant challenge. Efforts to attract and retain qualified PCPs, improve practice infrastructure, and expand access to telemedicine are crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services and the provision of comprehensive patient education are essential components of a robust hypertension management strategy.

In conclusion, while a precise, numerical Hypertension Score is difficult to calculate without granular data, the factors discussed above – physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education – collectively determine the quality of hypertension care available in Mill Creek. The community’s commitment to addressing these factors will ultimately determine its success in improving the health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mill Creek, and to explore physician locations, practice details, and potential access challenges, consider utilizing the mapping tools available through CartoChrome. These tools can provide a valuable perspective on the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and aid in identifying areas where improvements are most needed.