26763, Springfield, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26763, Springfield, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.55 percent of the residents in 26763 has some form of health insurance. 43.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.91 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 26763 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 441 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26763. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 264 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 452 health care providers accessible to residents in 26763, Springfield, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Springfield, WV (ZIP Code 26763)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management capabilities within the Springfield, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26763) area, focusing on primary care access, physician resources, and related support systems. The goal is to assess the area's ability to effectively address hypertension, a significant public health concern, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. The analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a holistic approach to hypertension care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Within the 26763 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the hypertension score. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and more personalized attention. Data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with local census information, is essential to determine the precise ratio within this specific geographic area. The analysis will also consider the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code, identifying any areas with limited access, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with mobility challenges.

Identifying standout practices is another crucial element of the hypertension score. This involves evaluating clinics and physician groups that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management. This assessment goes beyond simply counting physicians. It looks at factors such as the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, and the availability of patient education materials. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, promote lifestyle modifications (such as dietary changes and exercise), and offer comprehensive follow-up programs are likely to receive higher marks. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes, such as controlled blood pressure readings, will be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Springfield. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, demonstrated positive patient outcomes, and provided convenient access to care will be viewed favorably.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure and can make it more difficult for patients to adhere to their treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension care strategy. The analysis will assess the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the 26763 ZIP code and surrounding areas. It will also evaluate the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site counseling or referral programs. The presence of support groups and community resources that address stress management and emotional well-being will also be considered.

Beyond the core elements of physician access, practice quality, telemedicine, and mental health support, several other factors can influence the hypertension score. These include the availability of pharmacies and medication adherence programs, the presence of community health initiatives focused on hypertension prevention and management, and the overall health literacy of the population. The analysis will incorporate these factors to provide a holistic assessment of the area's capacity to effectively manage hypertension.

The final hypertension score will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing for easy comparison with other geographic areas. The analysis will also identify areas for improvement, providing recommendations for how to enhance hypertension management capabilities within the 26763 ZIP code.

The analysis will provide specific examples of best practices and identify any gaps in care. It will highlight practices that are excelling in hypertension management, serving as models for other providers. It will also pinpoint areas where resources are lacking, such as a shortage of specialists or a lack of access to mental health services. This information will be valuable for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations working to improve the health of the residents of Springfield.

By providing a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare landscape, this analysis aims to empower residents of Springfield, WV, with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health. It also provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations working to improve hypertension management in the area. The goal is to create a healthier community by ensuring that all residents have access to the resources and support they need to effectively manage their blood pressure and live long, healthy lives.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Springfield, WV, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore our interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the CartoChrome maps and gain a comprehensive understanding of the hypertension management resources available in your community.**