26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.54 percent of the residents in 26444 has some form of health insurance. 43.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.36 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 26444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 696 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 905 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Tunnelton, WV (ZIP Code 26444)

The analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of hypertension management within the Tunnelton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26444) area, examining primary care resources and related factors. This assessment provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, indirectly gauging the community's capacity to address this prevalent health concern. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components in effective hypertension control.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Tunnelton and the surrounding Preston County is a foundational element. Precise data on the current ratio requires accessing up-to-date databases, but generally, rural areas often face challenges. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, can create barriers to accessing timely care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent monitoring, and ultimately, poorer hypertension management outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly crucial, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for initial screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management of hypertension.

Specific practice characteristics influence the quality of care. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), and medication adherence support, contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score." The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice is a significant asset, as these professionals can provide specialized guidance to patients managing hypertension, especially those with co-existing conditions like diabetes. The availability of on-site laboratory services for blood work also streamlines the diagnostic and monitoring process, enhancing patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients who may face geographical or mobility challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve the "Hypertension Score" by increasing patient engagement and providing more frequent monitoring, which can lead to better control of blood pressure. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share data seamlessly between providers are also crucial for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension management, yet they play a critical role. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or through referral networks is a vital component of a comprehensive approach to hypertension care. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways, will likely contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score."

Standout practices within the 26444 ZIP code would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes offering a range of services, such as regular blood pressure screenings, patient education, lifestyle counseling, and medication management. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, through shared decision-making and patient education, are also likely to achieve better outcomes. The use of evidence-based guidelines and protocols for hypertension management, as recommended by organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is a key indicator of quality care.

Assessing the "Hypertension Score" requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. It also necessitates considering the socioeconomic factors that may influence patient access to care and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis should be conducted with a focus on identifying areas for improvement and highlighting best practices.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community is effectively addressing the needs of individuals with hypertension. This includes tracking key metrics, such as blood pressure control rates, patient adherence to medication, and the utilization of preventative services.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" analysis for ZIP Code 26444, Tunnelton, WV, provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of hypertension management. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a better understanding of the community's capacity to address this important health concern. The analysis should be used to identify areas for improvement and to promote best practices.

For a more detailed and visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tunnelton and Preston County, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, helping you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.