27253, Graham, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27253, Graham, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.23 percent of the residents in 27253 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.95 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 27253 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,710 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27253. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,720 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 27253, Graham, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Graham, NC (ZIP Code 27253)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Graham, North Carolina, and the surrounding ZIP code 27253 requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers key indicators, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the integration of mental health resources, to formulate a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients in their fight against hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While exact figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population within 27253 is paramount. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent per patient, impacting the ability to effectively monitor and manage hypertension. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau must be consulted to determine a baseline physician-to-patient ratio for the area. This ratio then needs to be compared to state and national averages to establish a relative ranking for Graham.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in specific areas of Graham, leaving other parts underserved? This geographical analysis is vital. Furthermore, the types of practices available – solo practices, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – can influence the overall quality of care. Group practices often offer a wider range of services and may have better resources for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Affiliations with larger healthcare systems can also provide access to specialized expertise and advanced diagnostic tools.

Identifying standout practices within Graham is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to best practices in hypertension management. This involves evaluating factors like the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data tracking, the implementation of standardized protocols for blood pressure measurement and monitoring, and the provision of patient education materials. Some practices may have dedicated hypertension clinics or specialized nurses who focus on patient education and support. The presence of these elements significantly elevates the quality of care and contributes to a higher "Hypertension Score."

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare, especially in managing chronic conditions. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely using connected devices, and provide ongoing support through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive management. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the patient experience, should be thoroughly assessed.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be overlooked. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that screen for mental health issues, provide counseling services, or have strong partnerships with mental health professionals contribute significantly to a higher "Hypertension Score." The integration of mental health services is a crucial factor in holistic patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators, can enhance the overall quality of hypertension management. These professionals can provide specialized guidance on lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, which are crucial for controlling blood pressure. The presence of these resources within or readily accessible to primary care practices is another factor in assessing the "Hypertension Score."

The implementation of patient education programs is another crucial element. Providing patients with clear and concise information about hypertension, its management, and the importance of lifestyle modifications empowers them to take an active role in their care. Practices that offer educational materials, group classes, or individual counseling sessions demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and contribute to better patient outcomes.

Evaluating the insurance acceptance policies of primary care practices is also important. Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? Limited insurance acceptance can create barriers to access for certain populations, which negatively impacts the overall "Hypertension Score."

Data collection and analysis should be conducted systematically. This involves gathering information from various sources, including physician directories, healthcare provider websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct surveys of practices. The data should be analyzed using a weighted scoring system, where each factor (physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, etc.) is assigned a specific weight based on its importance. This weighted scoring system allows for a more objective and comprehensive assessment of the "Hypertension Score."

The final "Hypertension Score" should be presented in a clear and concise format, providing an overall rating for Graham and the surrounding area. This score should be accompanied by a detailed breakdown of the factors that contribute to the score, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement. The analysis should also include specific recommendations for improving hypertension management in the community.

This comprehensive analysis, while providing a valuable snapshot, is a dynamic process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging regularly. Therefore, the "Hypertension Score" should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure its continued relevance.

Finally, understanding the geographical distribution of these resources is crucial for patients. Knowing where the physicians are located, which practices offer telemedicine, and where mental health resources are available empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care.

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