27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.17 percent of the residents in 27577 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 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 27577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)

Smithfield, North Carolina, nestled in Johnston County, presents a unique landscape for primary care and hypertension management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians within ZIP code 27577, assessing their capacity to address hypertension, a prevalent health concern. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. A critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Smithfield, the availability of primary care physicians, including internal medicine, family medicine, and general practitioners, is a crucial determinant of the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access, facilitating more frequent check-ups, proactive monitoring, and patient education – all vital components of hypertension control. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 27577 requires careful analysis of local healthcare provider directories and population demographics.

Several primary care practices within Smithfield are likely to stand out in their approach to hypertension management. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, leveraging evidence-based guidelines and implementing innovative strategies. We can anticipate that these practices will be employing a variety of techniques. Some will use the latest blood pressure monitoring equipment and offer comprehensive lifestyle counseling, including dietary guidance, exercise recommendations, and stress management techniques. Others may have dedicated nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension management, providing additional support and education to patients. The best practices will likely have robust electronic health record systems, enabling them to track patient progress, monitor medication adherence, and identify patients at high risk for complications.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the hypertension score. Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Through virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient education, telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those with busy schedules. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, allowing for proactive adjustments to medication and lifestyle interventions. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings provides valuable data for physicians to make informed decisions and identify potential problems early on.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of the hypertension score. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. Ignoring the mental health component can undermine efforts to control blood pressure. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are likely to achieve better outcomes. These practices may offer stress management workshops, mindfulness training, or counseling sessions to help patients manage their mental well-being and, in turn, improve their blood pressure control.

The "Hypertension Score" for Smithfield, NC (27577) would be a composite measure reflecting all of these factors. A higher score would indicate a community with excellent access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, proactive practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services. The specific score would need to be determined by the detailed analysis of local data, including the number of primary care physicians, patient demographics, practice characteristics, and the availability of telemedicine and mental health services.

The evaluation of practices should also consider their patient education programs. Effective patient education is essential for empowering individuals to take control of their health. Practices that provide educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and group classes, are likely to see better adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle recommendations. These programs should cover topics such as the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring, the effects of sodium and potassium on blood pressure, the benefits of exercise, and the dangers of smoking.

Moreover, the analysis must consider the local infrastructure supporting hypertension management. This includes the availability of pharmacies for medication refills, access to diagnostic testing, and the presence of community-based resources, such as support groups and wellness programs. The presence of these resources can significantly enhance the ability of patients to manage their hypertension effectively.

The analysis should also consider the prevalence of hypertension within the community. If the prevalence is higher than the national average, it would place greater emphasis on the need for accessible and effective hypertension management. The analysis should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population, such as age, race, and socioeconomic status, as these factors can influence the risk of hypertension and the ability to access care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Smithfield, NC (27577) requires a comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, patient education programs, and local infrastructure. This detailed evaluation will provide a valuable understanding of the community's capacity to manage hypertension effectively and identify areas for improvement.

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