26349, Galloway, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.68 percent of the residents in 26349 has some form of health insurance. 73.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 24.39 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 26349 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26349. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Galloway, WV (ZIP Code 26349)

This analysis provides an assessment of primary care physician resources and related factors impacting hypertension management within Galloway, West Virginia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 26349. The goal is to evaluate the availability of care, identify potential strengths and weaknesses, and offer insights for improving hypertension control within the community. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in effective hypertension care.

Galloway, a small community, likely faces unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to urban settings. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potential difficulties in accessing specialized care. The analysis will consider these factors in the context of hypertension management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric for assessing access to primary care. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient population per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. This can impact the ability to provide comprehensive hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26349 is essential. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates, although these may not reflect the most current information. Furthermore, the availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, should be factored into the overall assessment of care availability.

Identifying standout practices within the Galloway area is crucial. These practices might demonstrate excellence in hypertension management, patient education, or innovative approaches to care delivery. Factors to consider include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and adherence to national guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, are particularly valuable. Additionally, practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as regular blood pressure screenings and early intervention strategies, are likely to achieve better outcomes for their patients.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving appointment availability. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in Galloway utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes examining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care to patients in the community.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, and addressing these issues is crucial for overall health. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within Galloway and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and the accessibility of these services for patients with hypertension. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for providing comprehensive care and improving patient outcomes.

The evaluation will also consider the availability of support services, such as registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and pharmacists. These professionals can provide valuable expertise in lifestyle modifications, medication management, and patient education, all of which are critical components of effective hypertension control. The presence of these support services within the community or readily accessible through referral networks is a positive indicator of a strong healthcare system.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the demographics of the population served by the primary care practices in Galloway. Understanding the age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status of the patient population can help identify specific needs and tailor interventions accordingly. For example, certain ethnic groups may be at higher risk for hypertension, and targeted education and outreach efforts may be necessary to address these disparities.

The assessment will also consider the availability of community resources, such as support groups, exercise programs, and healthy food options. These resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their health and improving their overall well-being. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is essential for creating a supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

Finally, the analysis will incorporate publicly available data on hypertension prevalence and control rates within the area. This data can provide a benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of current healthcare practices and identifying areas for improvement. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments can provide valuable insights into the health status of the community.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management in Galloway, WV (ZIP code 26349), requires a multi-faceted approach. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support, a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare system can be developed. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights for improving access to care, promoting effective hypertension management, and ultimately, improving the health outcomes of the residents of Galloway.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Galloway, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. See how location-based data can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and inform your decision-making.