27822, Elm City, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27822, Elm City, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.52 percent of the residents in 27822 has some form of health insurance. 47.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.07 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 27822 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27822. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,669 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,837 health care providers accessible to residents in 27822, Elm City, North Carolina.

The analysis below focuses on hypertension management within ZIP code 27822, encompassing Elm City, North Carolina, specifically evaluating primary care physician availability and related resources. This assessment considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in effective hypertension control.

Elm City, a community within 27822, presents a unique set of healthcare challenges and opportunities. The prevalence of hypertension, like in many rural areas, is likely significant, making access to quality primary care a paramount concern. The ability to effectively manage this chronic condition directly impacts the overall health and well-being of the community. Therefore, a detailed examination of the existing healthcare landscape is essential.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In 27822, determining this ratio requires careful data collection. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the US Census Bureau, provides a starting point. However, this data alone doesn’t paint the complete picture. The actual number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code, their patient load, and the acceptance of new patients are critical. A high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited acceptance of new patients, signals potential access barriers. Conversely, a lower ratio, combined with open practices, suggests better access, although this doesn’t guarantee quality.

Identifying standout practices within 27822 is important. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management. This requires looking beyond just the number of physicians. We need to consider the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and patient monitoring, and the availability of ancillary services such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators. Practices that actively engage patients in their care through education, regular follow-ups, and lifestyle counseling are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate consistently good blood pressure control rates should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating hypertension care. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Elm City. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans. The level of telemedicine integration varies widely among practices. Some may offer comprehensive telehealth services, while others may only use it for limited purposes, such as medication refills. Practices that proactively embrace telemedicine and integrate it seamlessly into their workflow are better positioned to provide accessible and effective hypertension care.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive hypertension management. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Ideally, these resources should be integrated into primary care practices, allowing for easy referrals and coordinated care. The presence of mental health support within the community, such as mental health clinics, support groups, and access to crisis intervention services, also contributes to a supportive environment for patients with hypertension. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and actively address it as part of their hypertension management strategy are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

Evaluating the overall effectiveness of hypertension management in 27822 requires a multi-faceted approach. Data on blood pressure control rates, rates of complications (such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease), and patient satisfaction are valuable indicators. However, obtaining such data can be challenging, as it often requires access to practice-specific information. The use of population health data from local health departments and hospitals can provide a broader perspective on community health outcomes.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the availability of resources. Patient education, engagement, and adherence to treatment plans are also critical factors. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide clear and concise information about hypertension, and actively involve patients in their care are more likely to achieve positive results. The use of patient portals, educational materials, and support groups can help empower patients to take control of their health.

Finally, the overall healthcare environment in 27822 is shaped by a variety of factors, including socioeconomic conditions, access to healthy food options, and the availability of exercise facilities. Addressing these broader determinants of health is essential for creating a supportive environment for hypertension management. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is crucial for improving the health and well-being of the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in 27822, including the location of primary care practices, telemedicine availability, and the presence of mental health resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent this data, providing valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential areas for improvement.