27262, High Point, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27262, High Point, North Carolina is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.19 percent of the residents in 27262 has some form of health insurance. 35.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.06 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 27262 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,804 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27262. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,907 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,988 health care providers accessible to residents in 27262, High Point, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: High Point, NC (ZIP Code 27262)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 27262 (High Point, North Carolina), focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to manage this prevalent health condition. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the delivery of hypertension care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. High Point, like many communities, faces challenges in ensuring adequate primary care physician (PCP) availability. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, data suggests a potential strain on existing resources. A higher patient-to-physician ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially less comprehensive care. This situation necessitates proactive strategies to enhance access.

One crucial aspect is the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code. Are practices geographically concentrated, leaving certain areas underserved? Are there enough practices accepting new patients, especially those with existing health conditions like hypertension? An uneven distribution can exacerbate disparities in access to care, impacting the ability of residents to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring.

Within the existing practices, the quality of care provided is paramount. This includes the expertise of the physicians, the availability of support staff (nurses, medical assistants, and care coordinators), and the integration of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. Do practices routinely screen for hypertension, provide patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and prescribe appropriate medications when necessary? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their effective utilization are also critical. EHRs facilitate the tracking of patient data, medication adherence, and the coordination of care among different healthcare providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to care, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. The adoption of telemedicine technologies within High Point practices is a key indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and improved outcomes. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication management, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine, however, is only one part of the equation; the quality of the technology, the training of the staff in its use, and the patient’s comfort level with the technology all play a role in its effectiveness.

Beyond the direct medical care, the availability of mental health resources is also a significant factor in hypertension management. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is vital for patients struggling with hypertension. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the ease of referral to external mental health providers can significantly improve patient outcomes. Are practices actively screening for mental health conditions? Do they have established referral pathways for patients needing mental health support?

Some practices in High Point may stand out for their commitment to hypertension management. Identifying these standout practices requires a deeper dive into their specific practices. Do they have dedicated hypertension clinics or programs? Do they offer specialized education and support groups for patients? Are they actively involved in community outreach and education initiatives? These practices can serve as models for other providers, demonstrating best practices and innovative approaches to care delivery.

Another crucial element is the patient’s ability to navigate the healthcare system. This includes understanding their diagnosis, treatment plan, and the importance of medication adherence. Patient education materials, clear communication from healthcare providers, and the availability of patient navigators can significantly improve patient outcomes. The language barrier can also be a factor, so the availability of multilingual services is an asset in a diverse community.

The affordability of healthcare is also a major consideration. The cost of medications, doctor’s visits, and diagnostic tests can be a barrier to care for many patients. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, is a critical factor in ensuring access to care. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or work with patients to manage their healthcare costs are more likely to serve a broader population.

Finally, the overall health of the community can impact hypertension management. Factors such as access to healthy food options, safe places for exercise, and a supportive social environment all contribute to a person's ability to manage their blood pressure effectively. Community initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and address social determinants of health can play a crucial role in improving hypertension outcomes.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in High Point, NC, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice specializations, and patient demographics, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer detailed, interactive visualizations that can help you identify areas with limited access to care and pinpoint opportunities for improvement in hypertension management.