26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.56 percent of the residents in 26719 has some form of health insurance. 29.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.94 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 26719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 572 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 447 health care providers accessible to residents in 26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26719 and Primary Care Availability in Fort Ashby**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26719, encompassing the town of Fort Ashby, West Virginia, requires a granular approach. This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension control.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Fort Ashby and the surrounding area presents a significant challenge. Rural communities often face a shortage of primary care physicians, and 26719 is no exception. While precise figures fluctuate, the ratio likely falls below the national average, meaning fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially larger patient population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like hypertension. The impact is particularly acute for older adults, who often have multiple health issues and require more frequent medical attention.

Evaluating the profiles of existing primary care practices in 26719 is essential. This involves examining the size of the practice, the types of services offered, and the qualifications of the physicians. Practices with a larger staff, including nurses, medical assistants, and other support personnel, may be better equipped to manage a high volume of patients and provide comprehensive care. Special attention should be given to the practice's approach to hypertension management. Does the practice have standardized protocols for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling? Are they actively involved in patient education and follow-up care?

Standout practices within the area often distinguish themselves through a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes offering extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and proactive outreach to patients with chronic conditions. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can streamline workflows, improve communication between providers, and facilitate better tracking of patient progress. Those that integrate patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their doctor, and manage their appointments online, contributing to improved patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in assessing the quality of care, especially in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations can provide patients with convenient access to care, reduce travel time and costs, and improve continuity of care. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management, allowing physicians to monitor blood pressure readings remotely, adjust medications as needed, and provide ongoing support and education. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as home blood pressure cuffs, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making it more difficult to control. Therefore, access to mental health resources is an important component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are better positioned to address the psychological factors that can contribute to hypertension. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can lead to more holistic and effective treatment plans.

The "Hypertension Score" for 26719, based on the above analysis, would likely be moderate, reflecting the challenges of a rural setting. The physician-to-patient ratio, while improving, would remain a limiting factor. The quality of care would vary between practices, with some demonstrating a strong commitment to hypertension management and patient-centered care, while others may need to improve their protocols and resources. Telemedicine adoption would be a significant positive factor, and the availability of mental health resources would influence the overall score.

The assessment of primary care availability in Fort Ashby and its impact on hypertension management is an ongoing process. Healthcare providers must continuously evaluate and adapt their practices to meet the evolving needs of the community. This includes actively recruiting and retaining qualified physicians, investing in technology to improve efficiency and patient care, and fostering collaboration with mental health professionals and other specialists.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26719, including the location of primary care practices, the distribution of patient populations, and the availability of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling you to identify areas of high need, assess accessibility challenges, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.