27209, Biscoe, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27209, Biscoe, North Carolina is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.31 percent of the residents in 27209 has some form of health insurance. 48.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.59 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 27209 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,843 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27209. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 569 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 139 health care providers accessible to residents in 27209, Biscoe, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27209 & Primary Care in Biscoe

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27209 and primary care availability within Biscoe, North Carolina, aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score, though not a single numerical value, reflects the overall capacity and effectiveness of the local healthcare system in addressing this prevalent condition. We will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive hypertension care.

The initial hurdle in assessing hypertension management in 27209 and Biscoe is the availability of data. Publicly accessible datasets often lack the granular detail required for a precise analysis at the ZIP code or town level. However, by leveraging available resources and making reasonable assumptions, we can construct a valuable assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, poorer patient outcomes. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for 27209 requires identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and estimating the population served. County-level data can offer some insight, but ZIP code-specific information is essential. If the county has a relatively high physician-to-population ratio, the situation in 27209 might be favorable, but this is not guaranteed. Conversely, if the county ratio is low, it's likely that access to PCPs in 27209 is also limited, potentially impacting hypertension care.

Biscoe, as a smaller community within the broader county, might face even greater challenges. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, making it critical to assess the availability of PCPs within a reasonable driving distance for Biscoe residents. This includes considering the presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that might help to mitigate the impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating those that demonstrate a commitment to hypertension management. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, such as regular blood pressure screenings, medication management, lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), and patient education. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, monitor treatment adherence, and implement evidence-based guidelines are also highly valued.

In 27209, identifying such practices necessitates researching local healthcare providers. This could involve searching online directories, reviewing patient testimonials, and potentially contacting local healthcare advocacy groups or patient organizations. The presence of any practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, known for their robust quality improvement programs, could be a positive indicator.

For Biscoe, the analysis should focus on practices within the town and the surrounding areas that residents are likely to access. The presence of a well-regarded family medicine practice or internal medicine clinic would be a significant asset. Assessing the practice's commitment to hypertension management, as described above, is crucial for determining its contribution to the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. It can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key factor in the "Hypertension Score."

Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and secure messaging platforms are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care for patients with hypertension. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in Biscoe, who might face longer travel times to see a specialist or PCP.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires researching local practices' websites, contacting them directly, and potentially reviewing patient feedback. The extent to which practices integrate telemedicine into their routine care processes is a critical factor.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Hypertension is often linked to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Addressing these co-occurring conditions is crucial for effective hypertension management. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is therefore an essential component of the "Hypertension Score."

Evaluating mental health resources in 27209 and Biscoe involves identifying local mental health providers, such as therapists and psychiatrists, and assessing their accessibility. This includes considering factors such as insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the availability of telehealth options.

The presence of any integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices is a significant advantage. Such integration allows for seamless coordination of care between PCPs and mental health providers, improving patient outcomes. The availability of mental health support groups and educational resources for patients with hypertension is also a positive indicator.

**Overall "Hypertension Score" Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the "Hypertension Score" for 27209 and primary care availability in Biscoe is likely to be influenced by several factors. If the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable, if there are standout practices with a strong focus on hypertension management, if telemedicine is widely adopted, and if mental health resources are readily available, the score would be higher. Conversely, if access to PCPs is limited, if practices lack comprehensive hypertension programs, if telemedicine adoption is low, and if mental health resources are scarce, the score would be lower.

The assessment is inherently limited by the lack of comprehensive, publicly available data. A more precise analysis would require access to detailed information on local healthcare providers, patient demographics, and health outcomes. However, the framework outlined here provides a valuable starting point for evaluating the capacity of the healthcare system in 27209 and Biscoe to effectively manage hypertension.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of healthcare access and resources in 27209 and Biscoe, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help visualize geographical data, such as the location of healthcare providers, population density, and other relevant factors. This can provide a more nuanced and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities related to hypertension management in these areas.