26501, Morgantown, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26501, Morgantown, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.27 percent of the residents in 26501 has some form of health insurance. 34.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.55 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 26501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,887 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 57 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26501. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,023 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,493 health care providers accessible to residents in 26501, Morgantown, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Morgantown, WV (ZIP Code 26501)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management within Morgantown, West Virginia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 26501. We examine the availability of primary care physicians, their approaches to hypertension treatment, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in this critical aspect of community health.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Morgantown, the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26501 is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians is a key determinant of patient access. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals with elevated blood pressure. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management. The specific ratio needs to be assessed with data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau, taking into account the geographic distribution of physicians within the area and the population density.

Standout practices within the 26501 ZIP code are those that prioritize comprehensive hypertension care. This includes not only accurate blood pressure monitoring and medication prescription but also a focus on lifestyle modifications. These practices often employ registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators to assist patients in adopting healthier eating habits and managing weight. They may also offer exercise programs or partner with local fitness facilities to promote physical activity, a critical component of hypertension control. Furthermore, these practices likely have robust systems for patient education, providing clear and concise information about hypertension, its risks, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans. They may utilize patient portals for communication, appointment scheduling, and access to educational materials.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the Hypertension Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills can significantly improve patient access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach beyond the physical office, providing ongoing support and monitoring to patients in their homes. This technology also facilitates more frequent check-ins, allowing for timely adjustments to medication regimens and lifestyle recommendations. The level of telemedicine adoption within 26501 varies, and the analysis must consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the platforms used, and the patient satisfaction levels with these virtual interactions.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in hypertension management, yet it's critical. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels, and addressing these issues is crucial for long-term control. Practices with strong hypertension scores often collaborate with mental health professionals, offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to therapists specializing in stress management and behavioral changes. They may also screen patients for depression and anxiety, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. The availability of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them directly influence the overall effectiveness of hypertension treatment.

The analysis also needs to consider the specific medication prescribing patterns of physicians in the area. Are they adhering to current guidelines for hypertension treatment, including the use of appropriate medications and dosages? Do they consider individual patient factors, such as comorbidities and medication side effects, when prescribing medications? This information can be obtained through data analysis of prescribing patterns, while maintaining patient confidentiality. The analysis should also look at the availability of affordable medications, considering the impact of prescription drug costs on patient adherence to treatment plans.

Furthermore, the assessment must consider the presence of community resources that support hypertension management. This includes access to healthy food options, such as farmers' markets and grocery stores with a wide selection of fresh produce. It also encompasses the availability of safe and accessible places for physical activity, such as parks, walking trails, and community centers. The presence of these resources can empower patients to adopt healthier lifestyles and improve their blood pressure control.

In summary, the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP code 26501 and primary care availability in Morgantown is a multi-faceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with comprehensive care models, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of community support systems. The final score will reflect the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing hypertension within the community. This score should be reviewed regularly to identify areas for improvement and track progress toward better patient outcomes.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, patient demographics, and community resources related to hypertension management in Morgantown, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Hypertension Score," explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. They offer a powerful way to analyze and visualize this complex data, enabling a more informed approach to improving community health.