26802, Brandywine, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26802, Brandywine, West Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.58 percent of the residents in 26802 has some form of health insurance. 55.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.10 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 26802 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 72 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26802. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20 health care providers accessible to residents in 26802, Brandywine, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Brandywine, WV (ZIP Code 26802)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within Brandywine, West Virginia, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning the management of hypertension. We will evaluate the resources available to residents of ZIP code 26802, considering factors crucial to effective hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

Brandywine, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Access to care, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, is often dictated by geographic limitations and resource availability. Understanding the local healthcare ecosystem is paramount to improving health outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26802 requires specific data analysis. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it is reasonable to assume that the ratio is less favorable compared to urban centers. This scarcity underscores the importance of efficient resource allocation and innovative healthcare delivery models.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in hypertension management. A practice excelling in hypertension control would likely demonstrate several key characteristics. They would have a well-defined protocol for hypertension screening, diagnosis, and treatment, adhering to the latest clinical guidelines. They would prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to actively manage their condition through lifestyle modifications and medication adherence. Furthermore, they would actively monitor patient progress, utilizing regular blood pressure checks, and adjusting treatment plans as needed. These practices might also be early adopters of technology, integrating electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data analysis and improve care coordination.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to overcome geographical barriers and enhance access to care in rural areas like Brandywine. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving medication adherence through virtual follow-up appointments. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians in 26802 is a key factor in assessing the quality of hypertension care. Practices actively embracing telemedicine would likely be more accessible to patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. This technology can also facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, enabling physicians to track patient progress and make timely adjustments to treatment plans.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach, addressing the multifaceted needs of their patients. This integration could involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with mental health specialists.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a thorough investigation. This includes identifying the number of primary care physicians in the area, their practice models, and their adoption of telemedicine. It also involves evaluating the presence of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Furthermore, understanding the referral pathways between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial.

The quality of hypertension care in Brandywine is also influenced by patient education programs. These programs empower individuals to take an active role in managing their condition. They often cover topics such as healthy eating, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and medication adherence. Practices that actively promote patient education demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and long-term health outcomes.

Another important factor is the availability of specialized care. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for hypertension management, patients with complex cases may require referral to specialists, such as cardiologists or nephrologists. The proximity of these specialists and the efficiency of referral pathways are critical factors in ensuring timely and appropriate care.

Furthermore, the utilization of data analytics plays a vital role. Practices that track patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, can identify areas for improvement and tailor their interventions accordingly. This data-driven approach allows for continuous quality improvement and ultimately leads to better patient outcomes.

The challenges in rural healthcare are significant, but the potential for improvement is equally substantial. By understanding the specific needs of the Brandywine community, healthcare providers can implement targeted interventions to improve hypertension management. This includes increasing access to care, promoting patient education, integrating mental health services, and embracing innovative technologies like telemedicine.

A comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26802 requires a detailed mapping of the available resources. This mapping should include the location of primary care physicians, specialists, mental health providers, pharmacies, and other relevant healthcare facilities. It should also incorporate data on patient demographics, health outcomes, and access to care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Brandywine, and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and informing strategic planning efforts.