27051, Walkertown, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27051, Walkertown, North Carolina is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.99 percent of the residents in 27051 has some form of health insurance. 41.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.08 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 27051 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,814 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27051. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 27051, Walkertown, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Walkertown, NC (ZIP Code 27051)

Walkertown, North Carolina, a community nestled within the 27051 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their practices regarding hypertension treatment, and the overall resources available to patients in managing this prevalent condition. We will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a hypertension score assessment.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Walkertown is crucial. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be essential to determine the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 27051 ZIP code and the population they serve. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is also significant. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, creating healthcare deserts for some residents? Are there practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensuring equitable access for all? These factors will influence the overall "accessibility" component of the hypertension score.

Once access is established, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. This involves examining how effectively practices address hypertension management. Key performance indicators (KPIs) include the percentage of patients with diagnosed hypertension who are actively being treated, the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control (defined by current guidelines), and the frequency of follow-up appointments.

Standout practices in Walkertown, those demonstrating excellence in hypertension care, often employ a multi-faceted approach. This includes using evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. They prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to understand their condition, make lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and adhere to medication regimens.

These leading practices often utilize technology to enhance patient care. Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of this analysis. Telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of these services and the extent to which they are integrated into routine practice will be evaluated. Practices that proactively use technology to improve patient outcomes will be given higher scores.

Another crucial aspect of comprehensive hypertension management is the integration of mental health resources. Hypertension and mental health are often intertwined. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and conversely, the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension can impact mental well-being. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or psychiatric care, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration is a significant factor in the overall hypertension score.

The availability of ancillary services also impacts the hypertension score. Access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and cardiac rehabilitation programs can support lifestyle modifications and improve patient outcomes. Practices that collaborate with these specialists and provide referrals will be considered more patient-centered and receive higher scores.

The overall hypertension score will be a composite of several factors. It will consider physician-to-patient ratios, insurance acceptance, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the use of technology (telemedicine), the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services. The score will be a relative measure, comparing the performance of practices within the 27051 ZIP code.

The final score will provide a snapshot of the quality of hypertension care available in Walkertown. It will identify areas of strength and weakness, highlighting practices that are doing well and areas where improvement is needed. The analysis will also provide insights for patients seeking primary care, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources, such as free or low-cost blood pressure screenings, support groups, and educational programs. These resources can play a vital role in promoting awareness, early detection, and self-management of hypertension. Their availability and accessibility will be factored into the overall score.

The data used to create this analysis will be compiled from various sources, including publicly available information from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and insurance provider directories. Patient reviews and feedback, where available and ethically permissible, will also be considered to gain a more nuanced understanding of the patient experience.

The analysis will not only assess the current state of hypertension care but also identify opportunities for improvement. This could include recommendations for practices to adopt telemedicine, integrate mental health services, or enhance patient education programs. The goal is to contribute to a healthier community by promoting better hypertension management.

In conclusion, the hypertension score for Walkertown, NC (27051) will provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape, focusing on primary care access, quality of treatment, and the availability of supportive resources. The analysis aims to empower patients and inform healthcare providers, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for individuals managing hypertension.

For a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to healthcare resources in Walkertown and surrounding areas, explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**.