26705, Aurora, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26705, Aurora, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.04 percent of the residents in 26705 has some form of health insurance. 43.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.36 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 26705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 132 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26705. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 179 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 56 health care providers accessible to residents in 26705, Aurora, West Virginia.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical Hypertension Score for physicians practicing within ZIP Code 26705, focusing on primary care availability in Aurora, West Virginia. This score isn't based on real-world data but rather a constructed assessment reflecting key factors impacting hypertension management. The goal is to simulate a comprehensive evaluation, highlighting areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare landscape.

The Hypertension Score, in this context, is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility, quality, and breadth of resources available to manage hypertension within the specified geographic area. The score considers factors such as the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. A higher score suggests a more favorable environment for hypertension management.

Aurora, West Virginia, a small community within ZIP Code 26705, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often leads to difficulties in accessing specialized care and a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity directly impacts the physician-to-patient ratio, a crucial element of the Hypertension Score. A lower ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access to care and more individualized attention, positively influencing the score. Conversely, a higher ratio can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially less effective management of chronic conditions like hypertension.

The primary care availability in Aurora is a significant determinant of the Hypertension Score. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for early detection, consistent monitoring, and proactive management of hypertension. This includes the availability of family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners. The score assesses the number of primary care providers actively practicing in the area, their willingness to accept new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. A shortage of primary care physicians, a common challenge in rural areas, would negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to the challenges of geographical isolation, especially in a rural setting like Aurora. It allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The score evaluates the extent to which local physicians utilize telemedicine platforms for patient consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that embrace telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

Mental health resources play a vital role in hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels. The Hypertension Score considers the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or readily accessible to residents of Aurora. The score also assesses the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as screening for mental health conditions and offering brief counseling interventions. A lack of mental health resources would negatively impact the score, highlighting a potential gap in the comprehensive care of patients with hypertension.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 26705 is a key aspect of the analysis. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management, such as implementing evidence-based guidelines, providing patient education, and utilizing innovative technologies. The Hypertension Score evaluates the practices based on their adherence to these best practices, their patient outcomes, and their commitment to continuous quality improvement. Practices that excel in these areas would contribute positively to the overall score.

The Hypertension Score also considers the availability of patient education resources. Effective self-management is critical for controlling hypertension. The score assesses the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group classes, that empower patients to understand their condition, make lifestyle modifications, and adhere to their medication regimens. Practices that prioritize patient education would receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the score takes into account the availability of ancillary services that support hypertension management. This includes access to laboratory services for blood pressure monitoring, pharmacy services for medication dispensing, and nutrition counseling for dietary modifications. The score evaluates the accessibility and affordability of these services within the community.

The analysis also considers the presence of community health initiatives that promote hypertension awareness and prevention. This includes programs that offer free blood pressure screenings, health education campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations. The presence of such initiatives would positively impact the score, reflecting a community-wide commitment to hypertension management.

In conclusion, the hypothetical Hypertension Score for physicians in ZIP Code 26705, focusing on primary care availability in Aurora, West Virginia, would be a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. The score would likely be influenced by the challenges of rural healthcare delivery, including physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and the need for innovative solutions like telemedicine. Practices that prioritize patient access, embrace technology, and integrate mental health services would likely receive higher scores. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve hypertension management in Aurora and similar rural communities.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within ZIP Code 26705, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can offer a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a deeper understanding of access and resource availability.