26348, Folsom, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26348, Folsom, West Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.41 percent of the residents in 26348 has some form of health insurance. 70.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.87 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 26348 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26348. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,311 health care providers accessible to residents in 26348, Folsom, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26348 & Primary Care in Folsom

This analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 26348 and the primary care infrastructure in Folsom, with a focus on factors influencing patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. We will consider the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and ultimately, the potential for improved hypertension control.

The evaluation of hypertension management begins with understanding the accessibility of primary care. In ZIP Code 26348, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio can lead to appointment delays, reduced time for patient education, and ultimately, suboptimal hypertension control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially facilitating more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. Analyzing the specific ratio within 26348 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards provides the necessary information to estimate this ratio, considering the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population.

Folsom, a more urban environment, likely presents a different scenario. Primary care availability in Folsom is influenced by factors such as the concentration of medical practices, the presence of large healthcare systems, and the number of patients each physician serves. Examining the distribution of PCPs across the city and the average patient load per physician offers valuable insights. Folsom's growth in recent years has likely increased the demand for primary care services. This increased demand could potentially strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient loads for individual physicians.

Beyond physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within both ZIP Code 26348 and Folsom requires evaluating several factors. These include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for data tracking, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide readily accessible information, and utilize technology to monitor patient progress are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Reviewing publicly available data, such as patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can offer a glimpse into patient experiences.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in enhancing access to care, particularly in rural areas like 26348. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially increasing the frequency of follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients are all crucial considerations. In Folsom, telemedicine can supplement in-person visits, providing convenience and potentially improving patient adherence to treatment plans. Examining the extent to which practices in both locations have embraced telemedicine and the types of services they offer is a key component of this analysis.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate hypertension management. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is essential. This includes access to mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), screening tools for mental health conditions, and referral pathways for patients who need specialized care. Evaluating the availability of these resources in both ZIP Code 26348 and Folsom provides a more comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. Practices that prioritize mental health integration are better equipped to address the multifaceted needs of patients with hypertension.

In addition to these factors, the availability of resources for patient education and support is vital. This includes access to educational materials about hypertension, lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise), and medication management. Practices that offer group classes, individual counseling sessions, and online resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. The presence of these resources within both ZIP Code 26348 and Folsom contributes to a more holistic approach to hypertension care. The effectiveness of these resources should be measured through patient feedback and outcomes data.

Analyzing specific practices within ZIP Code 26348 requires careful consideration of the unique challenges of a rural environment. Limited access to specialists, transportation difficulties, and a potentially older population demographic are all factors that can impact hypertension management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to addressing these challenges, such as offering home health visits or partnering with community organizations, may be considered standout practices.

In Folsom, the presence of larger healthcare systems can influence the quality and accessibility of care. These systems often have greater resources, including advanced technology, specialized staff, and integrated care models. However, it is important to evaluate the performance of individual practices within these systems, as well as their ability to provide personalized care. Competition between practices in Folsom may also incentivize innovation and the adoption of best practices in hypertension management.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to identify areas for improvement in hypertension care within both ZIP Code 26348 and Folsom. This includes identifying gaps in access to care, evaluating the quality of services provided, and assessing the integration of mental health resources and patient education programs. The information gathered can be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare providers in improving their practices, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient outcomes, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician density, access to care, and patient outcomes, providing a powerful tool for analyzing the healthcare landscape.