26852, Purgitsville, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26852, Purgitsville, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 26852 has some form of health insurance. 39.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.19 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 26852 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 224 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26852. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 185 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 80 health care providers accessible to residents in 26852, Purgitsville, West Virginia.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26852, encompassing the small community of Purgitsville, necessitates a deep dive into the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis will serve as a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the resources available to residents for managing hypertension and to identify potential areas for improvement.

Purgitsville, with its rural setting, likely faces challenges common to underserved areas. The most immediate concern is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio for 26852 requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. However, given the population size and the limited number of established practices typically found in such locales, it's reasonable to anticipate a ratio that may be less favorable than the national average. This means fewer physicians are potentially responsible for a larger patient population, placing a greater strain on their time and resources.

The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for hypertension management. Regular checkups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management are all essential components of effective care. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants can help alleviate some of the pressure on physicians, but their availability also needs to be considered. The 'Hypertension Score' would need to reflect the number and type of healthcare providers available within the area, as well as their ability to provide comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices within 26852 is difficult without specific data. However, we can speculate on the characteristics that would contribute to a high 'Hypertension Score.' A practice that emphasizes preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings and patient education, would be highly desirable. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and manage medication refills efficiently would also score well. The presence of registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators would be a significant asset, as lifestyle modifications are crucial for hypertension control.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. In a rural area like Purgitsville, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals would significantly enhance their 'Hypertension Score.' Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians more easily, reducing the need for travel and improving adherence to treatment plans. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure and adjust medications can be particularly beneficial for managing hypertension.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of hypertension management, but they are extremely important. Stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, either within a primary care practice or readily accessible in the community, would positively impact the 'Hypertension Score.' Integrated care, where mental health services are offered in conjunction with primary care, is considered best practice and could improve patient outcomes.

The 'Hypertension Score' would also consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to a local pharmacy is essential for patients to obtain their medications. The presence of a laboratory for blood work is also important. Easy access to these services reduces the burden on patients and improves their ability to adhere to their treatment plans. The availability of transportation options, especially for those with limited mobility, would also factor into the score.

Furthermore, the 'Hypertension Score' should reflect the practice's commitment to patient education. Providing patients with clear, concise information about hypertension, its causes, and its management is crucial. This includes information on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, as well as the importance of medication adherence. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or individual counseling sessions would be highly rated.

In summary, assessing the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 26852 requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care providers, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services. The practices that prioritize preventative care, patient education, and convenient access to care will likely receive the highest scores. The specific data regarding Purgitsville's healthcare infrastructure is essential for an accurate assessment.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. Improving the score requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. Addressing the challenges of rural healthcare, such as physician shortages and limited access to specialized services, is critical.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26852, including the location of medical facilities, physician specialties, and the availability of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the area, highlighting the distribution of healthcare providers and other relevant information. This tool can be invaluable for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers looking to improve their services.