26386, Lumberport, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.25 percent of the residents in 26386 has some form of health insurance. 50.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.12 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 26386 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 714 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26386. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 291 health care providers accessible to residents in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lumberport, WV (ZIP Code 26386)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management resources and primary care availability within Lumberport, West Virginia (ZIP code 26386). The goal is to assess the landscape for individuals seeking care for hypertension, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. This assessment culminates in a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care, with a specific focus on factors crucial for effective hypertension management.

The foundation of this analysis rests on the understanding that effective hypertension control requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) who can diagnose, monitor, and manage hypertension through medication and lifestyle recommendations. Furthermore, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is crucial for complex cases. Telemedicine adoption can significantly improve access, especially for those in rural areas, while integrated mental health services are essential, as stress and anxiety can exacerbate hypertension.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

A critical indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Lumberport (26386), the availability of primary care physicians is a key determinant of the Hypertension Score. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and publicly available physician directories will be analyzed to determine the current ratio. This data will be cross-referenced with population estimates for the ZIP code. Any significant shortage of PCPs will negatively impact the score. The analysis will also consider the number of practices accepting new patients, as this directly affects access.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine or family practice, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiograms), and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, such as providing educational materials on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation) and medication adherence, will be given higher consideration. The analysis will investigate the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments, which can enhance accessibility for working individuals. The review will also examine patient reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Lumberport. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring (e.g., blood pressure tracking), and virtual follow-up appointments will receive a positive assessment. The analysis will evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telehealth data into the patient's EHR. The availability of telehealth options can mitigate the challenges of geographic isolation and transportation barriers, ultimately improving the Hypertension Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Hypertension Score. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers) within primary care practices or within the community. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, will be viewed favorably. The availability of referrals to mental health specialists and the promotion of stress management techniques will also be considered.

**Hypertension Score Calculation**

The Hypertension Score will be a composite metric based on the weighted averages of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant factor, reflecting the fundamental accessibility of primary care. The characteristics of standout practices, including the availability of diagnostic services, EHR usage, and patient education programs, will contribute substantially to the score. Telemedicine adoption will be weighted according to the breadth and accessibility of services. The integration of mental health resources will be a critical component, reflecting the importance of a holistic approach to hypertension management. The final score will be presented on a scale, providing a clear and concise assessment of the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in Lumberport.

**Specifics and Data Sources**

The analysis will rely on data from the West Virginia DHHR, the West Virginia Board of Medicine, and publicly available physician directories. Data will be gathered from practice websites, patient reviews, and interviews with healthcare professionals where possible. The specifics of each practice, including the number of physicians, the services offered, and the availability of telemedicine, will be meticulously documented. The analysis will also consider the presence of community health centers or other organizations providing care to underserved populations.

**Concluding Remarks**

The Hypertension Score for Lumberport (26386) will serve as a valuable tool for individuals seeking hypertension care. It will provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. The analysis will identify areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the quality and accessibility of hypertension care in Lumberport. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to promote a healthier community.

**Call to Action**

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