27713, Durham, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27713, Durham, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 27713 has some form of health insurance. 22.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.06 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 27713 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27713. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,043 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,416 health care providers accessible to residents in 27713, Durham, North Carolina.

The analysis below is based on publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant health concern, and access to quality primary care is crucial for its effective management. This analysis examines the landscape of hypertension management in Durham, North Carolina, specifically focusing on primary care physicians within the 27713 ZIP code, and the broader context of primary care availability in Durham. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients in this area, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all critical components of comprehensive hypertension care.

The 27713 ZIP code, encompassing a portion of Durham, presents a unique demographic and healthcare access profile. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental starting point. While precise figures fluctuate and are often proprietary, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau allows for estimations. A higher physician-to-patient ratio (meaning fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access to care. A ratio significantly higher than the national average could suggest potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, which requires regular monitoring and medication management. This ratio is dynamic and should be considered a snapshot in time, influenced by factors such as physician specialization, retirement rates, and population growth.

Identifying standout practices within the 27713 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data, such as patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can offer insights into patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care. However, these reviews should be interpreted with caution, recognizing potential biases. More reliable indicators include the practices’ accreditations (e.g., from the National Committee for Quality Assurance), participation in quality improvement initiatives, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices that actively participate in these initiatives are likely to demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine offers patients greater flexibility and convenience, potentially improving medication adherence and reducing the burden of travel for routine follow-up appointments. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining which practices within 27713 offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., blood pressure monitoring), and secure patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The sophistication of the telemedicine platform, including its integration with electronic health records and its ability to support virtual monitoring of vital signs, is also important.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is increasingly recognized as essential for comprehensive hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels, and addressing these issues is crucial for effective treatment. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This includes screening for depression and anxiety, providing brief interventions, and coordinating care with mental health specialists when needed. The availability of mental health resources is particularly important for patients who may be struggling with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, which are often recommended as part of hypertension management.

Primary care availability in Durham, beyond the 27713 ZIP code, is a broader consideration. The overall density of primary care physicians, the distribution of specialists, and the presence of urgent care clinics and hospital systems all contribute to the accessibility of care. Analyzing the availability of primary care involves considering the geographic distribution of practices, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Areas with limited primary care access may require patients to travel further for care or face longer wait times, potentially impacting their ability to receive timely hypertension management.

Evaluating the performance of individual practices in hypertension management requires a deeper dive. This includes assessing their rates of blood pressure control, their use of guideline-directed medical therapy, and their patient education efforts. Practices that consistently achieve high rates of blood pressure control and engage patients in their care are likely to be providing more effective management. This data is often not publicly available, but it can sometimes be accessed through health insurance plans or quality reporting initiatives.

The commitment to patient education is also a key element. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications are more likely to empower patients to actively participate in their care. This includes providing educational materials, offering group classes, and utilizing patient portals to share information and resources. The use of culturally sensitive materials and the availability of interpreters can further enhance patient education efforts, particularly in diverse communities.

In conclusion, the management of hypertension in the 27713 ZIP code and the broader Durham area is a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the performance of individual practices all contribute to the overall quality of care. By considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and healthcare providers can strive to improve their services.

For a more detailed, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Durham, including the distribution of primary care physicians, the location of hospitals and clinics, and the availability of various healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Gain valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare services and make more informed decisions about your health.