26845, Old Fields, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26845, Old Fields, West Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26845 has some form of health insurance. 13.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 96.27 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 26845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 224 health care providers accessible to residents in 26845, Old Fields, West Virginia.

The analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP Code 26845, focusing on Old Fields, West Virginia. This assessment examines the availability of primary care physicians, their practices regarding hypertension management, and the integration of resources that support patient well-being. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Old Fields, while not readily available as a precise number, likely reflects the challenges of rural healthcare. The limited population base and geographic isolation can contribute to a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity necessitates careful resource allocation and the exploration of innovative solutions to ensure adequate access to care. The current ratio likely falls below the national average, placing a greater burden on existing practitioners.

The core of effective hypertension management lies in the practices of primary care physicians. This includes regular blood pressure screenings, accurate diagnosis, and the development of personalized treatment plans. The assessment should include an evaluation of how consistently physicians adhere to the latest guidelines established by organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). This adherence includes the use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) when appropriate, the prescription of appropriate medications, and the provision of patient education regarding lifestyle modifications.

Standout practices within the area are identified by their commitment to comprehensive care. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management, going beyond basic screenings and medication prescriptions. They may incorporate initiatives such as patient education programs, support groups, and collaborations with other healthcare providers, such as cardiologists and dietitians. The assessment should identify practices that excel in patient communication, providing clear and understandable information about hypertension and its management.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in expanding access to care, especially in rural areas. The use of telehealth allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The assessment should evaluate the extent to which physicians in Old Fields utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes the use of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and the delivery of educational materials. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and patient-centered care.

Mental health resources play a significant role in hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and addressing these issues is essential for overall well-being. The assessment should investigate the availability of mental health services in Old Fields and the extent to which primary care physicians integrate mental health considerations into their practice. This includes screening for mental health conditions, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and collaborating with mental health providers to provide comprehensive care. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care options is crucial.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, is also a key factor. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for hypertension management, patients with complex cases or uncontrolled blood pressure may require referral to a cardiologist. The assessment should evaluate the proximity of cardiology services to Old Fields and the ease with which patients can access these services. This includes the availability of appointments, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the communication between primary care physicians and cardiologists.

The assessment should also consider the availability of resources that support lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating and exercise. These modifications are essential for managing hypertension and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The assessment should evaluate the availability of resources such as nutrition counseling, exercise programs, and access to healthy food options. The presence of community programs that promote healthy lifestyles can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The review of the local pharmacy landscape is also important. The assessment should evaluate the availability of medications used to treat hypertension, the cost of these medications, and the ease with which patients can access them. This includes the presence of local pharmacies, the availability of generic medications, and the availability of medication assistance programs. The interaction between the pharmacy and the physicians, in terms of prescription management and patient education, is also relevant.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for physicians in ZIP Code 26845, and specifically in Old Fields, is not a simple numerical value. Instead, it's a composite assessment that reflects the availability of resources, the practices of physicians, and the integration of various elements of care. The score would be higher for practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management, embrace telemedicine, integrate mental health considerations, and provide access to resources that support lifestyle modifications. The score would be lower for practices that lack these elements.

The challenges of rural healthcare are evident in Old Fields. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, geographic isolation, and potential lack of specialized services create barriers to care. However, the assessment should also identify opportunities for improvement. The adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Old Fields and to identify areas for improvement. The assessment should serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Old Fields, including physician locations, resource availability, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a detailed and dynamic view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.