25428, Inwood, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 25428, Inwood, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.96 percent of the residents in 25428 has some form of health insurance. 24.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.76 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 25428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,719 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25428. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,319 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,318 health care providers accessible to residents in 25428, Inwood, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Inwood, WV (ZIP Code 25428)

This analysis provides an assessment of hypertension management resources within Inwood, West Virginia (ZIP code 25428), focusing on primary care availability and related factors impacting patient care. The goal is to evaluate the landscape for individuals seeking to manage their hypertension, considering physician access, practice characteristics, and the availability of supportive services. This analysis will not produce a numerical score, but rather a qualitative assessment based on publicly available data and established best practices in hypertension management.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is consistent access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Inwood's population, coupled with the number of practicing PCPs within the 25428 ZIP code, provides a preliminary indication of physician-to-patient ratios. While precise ratios require access to up-to-the-minute patient panels, publicly available information suggests the potential for access challenges. A higher patient-to-physician ratio could translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially less comprehensive care. This scarcity, if present, would be a significant factor in the overall assessment.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as readily available blood pressure monitoring and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) capabilities? The presence of registered nurses (RNs) or certified medical assistants (CMAs) with specialized training in hypertension management can also significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that prioritize proactive patient education, including readily available educational materials and counseling on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), will score higher in this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations for medication management, follow-up appointments, and remote blood pressure monitoring can improve patient adherence and reduce the burden of travel for those living in more remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and user-friendly access for their patients, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This is particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and individuals with underlying mental health conditions may face additional challenges in adhering to treatment plans. The availability of integrated mental health services within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals, is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that screen for depression and anxiety, and provide resources for stress management, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This could include on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health organizations, or readily available educational materials on stress reduction techniques.

The analysis also considers the presence of any standout practices within the 25428 ZIP code. Are there any practices that have received national recognition for their hypertension management programs? Do they participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) recognition programs? Do they actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient outcomes and identify opportunities for improvement? These factors can indicate a commitment to excellence and a focus on achieving optimal patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services contributes to the overall picture. Are there pharmacies within the ZIP code that offer medication adherence programs or blood pressure monitoring services? Are there community-based resources, such as support groups or educational programs, that provide additional support for individuals managing their hypertension? The presence of these resources can enhance patient engagement and promote self-management.

The accessibility of healthy food options and opportunities for physical activity also play a significant role. Are there grocery stores within the community that offer a wide selection of fresh produce and low-sodium options? Are there parks, walking trails, or fitness facilities available to encourage physical activity? The availability of these resources can support lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension management.

The analysis must also account for the socioeconomic factors that can impact health outcomes. The prevalence of poverty, limited access to transportation, and lack of health insurance can create significant barriers to care. Practices that are sensitive to these challenges, and offer assistance with accessing resources such as financial assistance programs or transportation services, demonstrate a commitment to health equity.

Overall, the assessment of hypertension management resources in Inwood, WV (25428) reveals a complex landscape. While the presence of primary care physicians is essential, the quality of care depends on a multitude of factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of community resources. The assessment must also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. A comprehensive evaluation requires detailed data on each of these elements.

To visualize the geographic distribution of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources within Inwood, and to gain a more granular understanding of the factors impacting hypertension management, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to analyze access to care, identify areas with limited resources, and make informed decisions about your health.