26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.83 percent of the residents in 26425 has some form of health insurance. 56.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.94 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 26425 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 185 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26425. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Rowlesburg, WV (ZIP Code 26425)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and resources for managing hypertension within Rowlesburg, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26425) presents a complex challenge. This rural community faces unique hurdles, including geographic isolation, limited access to specialists, and socioeconomic factors that can exacerbate health disparities. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis requires evaluating several key areas, moving beyond simple physician counts to assess the actual capacity for effective hypertension management.

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

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Rowlesburg is crucial. This involves identifying the number of active primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A low ratio indicates a potential shortage, making it harder for residents to secure timely appointments and ongoing care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes related to hypertension.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care available is critical. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, or a combination? The presence of internal medicine specialists, with their focused expertise, can be particularly beneficial for managing complex cases of hypertension. Furthermore, the availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants (PAs) can significantly improve access to care, especially in areas with physician shortages. These healthcare professionals often play a vital role in providing routine check-ups, medication management, and patient education related to hypertension.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout practices in Rowlesburg involves assessing their approach to hypertension management. Do these practices utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment? Are they actively monitoring patient blood pressure, providing lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and adjusting medications as needed? Practices that embrace a proactive, patient-centered approach are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

Key indicators of a strong practice include the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for easy tracking of patient data and automated alerts for blood pressure readings outside of the target range. The presence of dedicated staff, such as nurses or medical assistants, who are specifically trained in hypertension management can also make a significant difference. These individuals can provide education, support, and follow-up care, empowering patients to take an active role in managing their condition.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for improving access to care in rural communities like Rowlesburg. Its adoption can significantly enhance hypertension management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a major barrier to care, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals.

The implementation of telemedicine requires appropriate technology, including secure video conferencing platforms and remote blood pressure monitoring devices. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer virtual check-ups, medication refills, and ongoing monitoring, leading to improved patient adherence to treatment plans. Furthermore, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, such as cardiologists, who may not be readily available in the local area.

**Mental Health Resources and Hypertension:**

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and make it more difficult to manage the condition effectively. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy.

Assessing the availability of mental health services in Rowlesburg involves identifying the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Do these professionals accept the same insurance plans as the primary care practices? Is there a collaborative approach between primary care physicians and mental health providers, allowing for coordinated care? Practices that integrate mental health services into their approach to hypertension management are better equipped to address the complex needs of their patients.

**Specific Considerations for Rowlesburg:**

Rowlesburg's unique geography and demographics require specific considerations. The community's rural setting may necessitate outreach programs to educate residents about hypertension and promote healthy lifestyles. Mobile health clinics, which can bring care directly to the community, could be particularly beneficial.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors prevalent in Rowlesburg, such as poverty and limited access to healthy food options, can significantly impact hypertension management. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including partnerships with local organizations, food banks, and community health initiatives.

**Conclusion:**

A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for Rowlesburg, WV (26425) would incorporate data on physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Addressing the challenges faced by this rural community requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rowlesburg and other rural areas.