27824, Engelhard, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.23 percent of the residents in 27824 has some form of health insurance. 50.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.82 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 27824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 417 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina.

The analysis will focus on the provision of hypertension care within ZIP code 27824, specifically examining the availability of primary care physicians in Engelhard, North Carolina. This assessment incorporates factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of exemplary practices, the utilization of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing hypertension in this area.

Engelhard, a small community in Hyde County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The geographical isolation and limited population density contribute to potential difficulties in securing timely and comprehensive medical care. The cornerstone of hypertension management is consistent primary care, making the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) a critical factor.

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 27824 requires careful data analysis. This would involve identifying the number of practicing PCPs within the area and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical boards are essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would significantly impact access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, infrequent monitoring, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for individuals with hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio, though still needing to be considered in the context of the local population's health needs, suggests better access to primary care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key indicators. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these guidelines would be more likely to provide optimal care. Another factor is the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient data management, medication reconciliation, and patient communication. Practices actively utilizing EHRs, especially those with patient portals, often demonstrate a higher level of organizational efficiency and a greater capacity to engage patients in their care.

The integration of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving hypertension care in geographically isolated areas like Engelhard. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring services without the need for in-person visits. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living a significant distance from their PCP. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, including virtual visits and remote blood pressure monitoring programs, often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to leverage technology to improve outcomes.

The link between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and individuals with hypertension may experience increased stress related to their condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site providers or referrals to external specialists, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being and can lead to improved patient outcomes.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves assessing patient outcomes. This can be done through analyzing metrics such as blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and the incidence of cardiovascular events. Practices that consistently achieve favorable outcomes, as evidenced by these metrics, are likely providing a higher standard of care. Publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction surveys and quality reports, can provide valuable insights into the performance of individual practices.

The adoption of innovative technologies, such as remote patient monitoring devices, can further enhance hypertension management. These devices allow patients to track their blood pressure at home and transmit the data to their physicians, enabling more frequent monitoring and timely interventions. Practices that embrace these technologies demonstrate a commitment to proactive care and a willingness to leverage data to improve patient outcomes.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and diabetes management programs, can also impact the quality of hypertension care. Hypertension is often associated with other cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Practices that have access to these specialized services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care and address the complex needs of their patients.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension care in ZIP code 27824, and specifically in Engelhard, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices based on their adherence to evidence-based guidelines and utilization of technology, assessing the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, and analyzing patient outcomes. The healthcare landscape in this rural community presents both challenges and opportunities. By understanding the specific needs of the population and leveraging available resources, healthcare providers can work to improve the quality of hypertension care and ultimately, improve the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Engelhard and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare resource availability, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.