27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.99 percent of the residents in 27587 has some form of health insurance. 19.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.47 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 27587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 21,940 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27587. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,892 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wake Forest, NC (ZIP Code 27587)

Analyzing hypertension management within Wake Forest, North Carolina (ZIP code 27587) necessitates a multifaceted approach, examining not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care, adoption of innovative technologies, and integration of mental health resources. This analysis provides a ‘Hypertension Score’ perspective, evaluating the local healthcare landscape and identifying key strengths and areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to provide residents with a clearer understanding of their access to quality hypertension care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Wake Forest, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate based on factors like physician retirement, relocation, and population growth, publicly available data from sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from local healthcare systems, allows for an approximate assessment. This data provides a baseline understanding of the primary care landscape.

Standout practices within Wake Forest significantly impact the overall Hypertension Score. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, and smoking cessation), medication management, and patient education. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American Medical Association, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, clinics that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, including automated alerts for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure, contribute to improved care coordination and patient monitoring.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, medication refills, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can expand their reach, improve patient convenience, and potentially reduce the burden on in-office appointments. The availability of telehealth options, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, directly impacts the Hypertension Score. Assessing the number of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction with these services is crucial.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, integrating mental health resources into hypertension management is essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, have referral pathways to mental health professionals, or incorporate stress-reduction techniques into their patient education programs demonstrate a higher commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of these resources significantly elevates the Hypertension Score, reflecting a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

Evaluating the availability of pharmacies within the 27587 ZIP code is also important. Easy access to pharmacies ensures patients can conveniently obtain their medications. The presence of pharmacies with extended hours, drive-through services, and pharmacists specializing in medication management enhances patient adherence and improves overall hypertension control. Access to affordable medications, including generic options, is also a key factor.

To assess the Hypertension Score, a weighted system can be used. Factors like physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources are assigned specific weights based on their relative importance. Data from various sources, including insurance providers, patient surveys, and public health records, are then collected and analyzed. The final score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care within Wake Forest.

A lower physician-to-patient ratio and the presence of a higher number of standout practices will contribute to a higher score. Extensive telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and easy access to pharmacies will also significantly increase the score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health integration will negatively impact the score.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of hypertension management in Wake Forest. However, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for better hypertension care within their community.

Understanding the spatial distribution of these resources is vital. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the location of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and mental health resources within the 27587 ZIP code. These maps can also highlight areas with limited access to care, allowing for targeted interventions to address healthcare disparities.

**Take control of your health and explore the healthcare landscape in Wake Forest! Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the location of essential resources and gain a deeper understanding of your access to quality hypertension care.**