26804, Circleville, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26804, Circleville, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 26804 has some form of health insurance. 73.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.77 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 26804 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 129 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26804. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26804, Circleville, West Virginia.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management capabilities within the ZIP Code 26804, specifically examining the primary care landscape of Circleville, West Virginia. Assessing the availability and quality of primary care is crucial for effectively managing hypertension, a prevalent condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing the overall 'Hypertension Score' for the area.

Circleville, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas, particularly regarding physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment of hypertension. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards would be necessary to accurately determine this ratio for ZIP Code 26804. The national average serves as a benchmark, and any significant deviation warrants further investigation. Areas with lower ratios often struggle to provide timely care, impacting the effectiveness of hypertension management programs.

Identifying standout practices within Circleville is essential for understanding best practices. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, patient education, and medication management, would score higher. Evidence-based guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) provide benchmarks for quality care. Practices employing certified hypertension specialists, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and offering patient-centered care models would be considered exemplary.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in rural areas, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. This can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and educational sessions. Practices that embrace telemedicine, providing secure video consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and patient portals for communication, would receive higher scores. The ability to remotely monitor patients’ blood pressure readings and adjust medication dosages, for example, can significantly improve hypertension control.

The crucial role of mental health resources in hypertension management should not be overlooked. Hypertension and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, are often comorbid. Stress and mental health challenges can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, within the Circleville area is a crucial element of the overall 'Hypertension Score'. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their hypertension management programs demonstrate a more holistic approach, leading to better patient outcomes. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for comprehensive care.

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 26804 would be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. A higher score would indicate a greater capacity to effectively manage hypertension, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would not be a single number but a nuanced assessment reflecting the complex interplay of these elements.

Specific examples of practices within Circleville, if available, would be assessed. For instance, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, offering telemedicine consultations, integrating mental health services, and adhering to AHA/ACC guidelines would receive a higher score than a practice with a high ratio, limited telemedicine, and no mental health integration. Public health initiatives, such as community-based blood pressure screening programs, would also positively influence the score. The presence of local pharmacies offering medication adherence programs and providing blood pressure monitoring services would also contribute.

Further analysis would consider the socioeconomic factors of the population served. Factors like insurance coverage, access to healthy food options, and levels of health literacy can significantly impact hypertension management. Practices that address these social determinants of health, through patient education, community outreach, and collaboration with social service agencies, would be recognized. Understanding the demographics of the patient population allows for a more accurate assessment of the challenges and opportunities within the Circleville healthcare landscape.

Data sources for this analysis would include the West Virginia Board of Medicine, HRSA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and potentially local hospital systems and clinics. Information on telemedicine adoption could be obtained through practice websites, surveys, and interviews. Data on mental health resources would come from state and local mental health agencies and directories. The analysis would strive for objectivity, relying on verifiable data and established healthcare guidelines.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 26804 and the primary care landscape of Circleville is a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. Access to care, the quality of care provided, the use of technology, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles. Improving hypertension management requires a multifaceted approach, addressing both clinical and social determinants of health.

To gain a visual understanding of these factors and the healthcare landscape in Circleville, including the location of practices, the distribution of resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of the data discussed, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members.