26416, Philippi, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26416, Philippi, West Virginia is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.91 percent of the residents in 26416 has some form of health insurance. 47.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.05 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 26416 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26416. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,300 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 671 health care providers accessible to residents in 26416, Philippi, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Philippi, WV (ZIP Code 26416)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within Philippi, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26416), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support. This will culminate in a "Hypertension Score" assessment, offering a comparative perspective on the area's strengths and weaknesses in combating this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Philippi, a rural community, faces the inherent challenges of geographic isolation and potential workforce shortages. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. Publicly available data, such as information from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the US Census Bureau, must be cross-referenced to approximate the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code. This figure then needs to be compared to the population of Philippi to establish a baseline ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would likely negatively impact the Hypertension Score, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Philippi is crucial. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based hypertension management protocols. Do these practices regularly screen patients for hypertension? Do they employ standardized blood pressure monitoring techniques? Are they actively involved in patient education regarding lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and stress management? Practices that proactively address these elements are likely to contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. Reviews and testimonials from patients, accessible through online platforms, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for expanding access to care, particularly in rural settings. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Philippi should be investigated. Are physicians utilizing virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive timely care without the need for extensive travel. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor. A high rate of telemedicine adoption, coupled with robust internet infrastructure, would positively influence the Hypertension Score.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized, especially in the context of chronic conditions like hypertension. The presence of mental health resources within the Philippi area directly impacts the overall effectiveness of hypertension management. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists? Are these resources integrated with primary care practices, facilitating collaborative care and referrals? The availability of mental health support is critical, as stress and anxiety can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure. Practices that prioritize and integrate mental health services into their care models will likely contribute to a higher Hypertension Score.

The Hypertension Score itself is a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It is not a single, definitive number but rather a qualitative assessment based on available data and research. The score will be influenced by: physician-to-patient ratio; the quality of primary care practices; telemedicine adoption rates; and the availability and integration of mental health resources. The score will be presented as a range, reflecting the inherent complexities of the assessment.

For example, a high score would suggest a favorable environment for hypertension management. This would be characterized by a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices adhering to evidence-based guidelines, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health support. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges in accessing and receiving adequate care, potentially due to physician shortages, limited telemedicine adoption, or a lack of mental health resources.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. Data availability, particularly in a rural setting, can be a constraint. This analysis relies on publicly available information, which may not always provide a complete picture. Patient experiences and anecdotal evidence, while valuable, are difficult to quantify. Furthermore, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new practices and technologies emerging regularly.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Philippi, WV (ZIP Code 26416) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the specific score is impossible to determine without a comprehensive, data-intensive investigation, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to effective hypertension management in the community. It highlights the critical importance of accessible primary care, the potential of telemedicine, and the need for integrated mental health support.

To gain a more granular, visually driven understanding of healthcare access and resources within Philippi and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping platform allows you to visualize data, identify trends, and gain deeper insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and services. Explore the potential of mapping to improve your understanding of healthcare access in Philippi.