26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.88 percent of the residents in 26865 has some form of health insurance. 38.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.41 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 26865 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26865. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18 health care providers accessible to residents in 26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26865 & Primary Care in Yellow Spring, WV**

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly concerning hypertension management, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Yellow Spring, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26865), and their capacity to address hypertension. The aim is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective hypertension care.

The initial assessment begins with physician-to-patient ratios. Determining the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP Code 26865 is paramount. This data point, ideally sourced from the West Virginia Board of Medicine or similar regulatory bodies, must then be compared against the population of Yellow Spring. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential access challenges. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, though it doesn't guarantee quality or comprehensive care. The population data should be sourced from the most recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates to ensure accuracy.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is critical. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are they dispersed throughout the community? Geographic accessibility, including travel times and transportation options, significantly impacts patient access. Rural communities often face challenges in this regard. The physical location of each practice, including its proximity to pharmacies, laboratories, and other essential healthcare services, should be considered.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining the quality of care offered by each PCP. Publicly available information, such as patient reviews (though inherently subjective), can provide initial insights. More importantly, data on the practice's adherence to established hypertension guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, should be investigated. Do the practices routinely screen for hypertension? Do they offer evidence-based treatment plans, including medication management and lifestyle counseling? Do they track patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates?

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telemedicine, and its continued integration into primary care can significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication refills. Assessing the extent to which PCPs in ZIP Code 26865 utilize telemedicine is essential. Are virtual appointments offered? Do patients have access to remote monitoring devices? Does the practice have a secure online portal for patient communication and education?

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is well-established. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a significant factor. Does the practice have access to mental health professionals? Are there referrals to psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists? Are there any local mental health clinics or support groups? The integration of mental health services into primary care can lead to more comprehensive and effective hypertension management.

Specific examples of standout practices would ideally highlight the presence of the above elements. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to evidence-based hypertension guidelines, robust telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health services would be considered exemplary. Conversely, a practice with limited physician availability, no telemedicine options, and no access to mental health resources would face significant challenges in providing optimal hypertension care.

The analysis should also consider the presence of ancillary services. Access to a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator can significantly benefit patients with hypertension. Nutritional counseling and education on healthy eating habits are critical components of lifestyle modifications. Similarly, access to physical therapy or cardiac rehabilitation programs can assist patients in adopting an active lifestyle.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Therefore, it is crucial to continuously update the data and analysis. Healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations are constantly changing, and their services should be assessed regularly.

The final score would represent a composite of all the factors mentioned above. It would reflect the overall capacity of the primary care system in ZIP Code 26865 to effectively manage hypertension. The score would be a valuable tool for both patients and healthcare providers. It would help patients make informed decisions about their care and help providers identify areas for improvement. The score should be transparent, easily understandable, and regularly updated to reflect the dynamic nature of the healthcare system.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Yellow Spring, WV, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, pharmacy locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform for analyzing geographic data and gaining valuable insights into healthcare accessibility.