26554, Fairmont, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.86 percent of the residents in 26554 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.40 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 26554 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26554. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,976 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,857 health care providers accessible to residents in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Fairmont, WV (ZIP Code 26554)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 26554, encompassing Fairmont, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on hypertension management, a prevalent health concern, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice features, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape for individuals seeking hypertension care in Fairmont.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In Fairmont, the ratio likely reflects the broader challenges faced by rural communities in West Virginia. The state, in general, experiences a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing providers. Accurate data on the specific ratio within 26554 requires access to up-to-date datasets, but the likelihood is a ratio exceeding the national average. This can translate to reduced access to preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings, and delayed interventions for those already diagnosed with hypertension.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This may involve implementing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, including the use of appropriate medications and lifestyle recommendations. They may also emphasize patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care. A standout practice might offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits to improve access. These practices should be evaluated based on their adherence to clinical guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of services offered, including access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, or other allied health professionals who can support lifestyle modifications.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical factor in enhancing access to care, particularly in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those residing in remote areas of the ZIP code. The level of telemedicine integration should be assessed, considering the types of services offered, the ease of use of the technology, and the availability of technical support for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital aspect of hypertension management. The connection between mental health and cardiovascular health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources should be evaluated, considering the types of mental health services offered, the accessibility of these services, and the level of collaboration between primary care providers and mental health professionals.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves assessing the availability of specialized services. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists like cardiologists and nephrologists is essential for patients with complex cases or those experiencing complications. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the efficiency of communication between primary care providers and specialists all contribute to the overall quality of care.

Beyond these core elements, several other factors can influence the Hypertension Score. Patient education materials, the availability of bilingual services, and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care all play a role. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability can also impact care coordination and efficiency. The practices’ commitment to quality improvement initiatives, such as participation in quality reporting programs, is another indicator of their dedication to providing high-quality care.

The analysis must also consider the socioeconomic context of Fairmont. Poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, and limited opportunities for physical activity can exacerbate hypertension risk factors. Understanding the social determinants of health is crucial for tailoring interventions and addressing the unique needs of the community. This includes assessing the availability of community resources, such as food banks, fitness centers, and support groups, that can help patients manage their hypertension.

This comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability in Fairmont, WV (26554) will provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape for individuals seeking hypertension care. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, identifying areas for improvement and informing strategies to enhance access to care and improve patient outcomes. This type of analysis is crucial for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members alike, as it allows for the development of targeted interventions and the allocation of resources to address the specific needs of the population.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fairmont, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, and the distribution of population demographics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable spatial context for this analysis, allowing you to visualize the data and identify patterns that might not be apparent from the numerical data alone.