27832, Gaston, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27832, Gaston, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.73 percent of the residents in 27832 has some form of health insurance. 53.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.37 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 27832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 325 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27832. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 766 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 382 health care providers accessible to residents in 27832, Gaston, North Carolina.

This analysis provides an overview of hypertension management resources and primary care availability within ZIP Code 27832 (likely representing a specific town or area) and Gaston, North Carolina, focusing on factors relevant to patient care and access. The information is intended to offer a general understanding, and specific data may vary.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston, NC**

Evaluating the quality of hypertension care necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of physicians but also the accessibility of services, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis assesses these elements within the specified geographical parameters.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Accessibility**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including hypertension management. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston is essential for a complete assessment. This data would ideally be broken down by specialty, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs), cardiologists, and nephrologists, all of whom play a critical role in hypertension treatment.

Gaston County's overall primary care availability is another key factor. The presence of a robust primary care network, including both private practices and community health centers, is vital for providing ongoing monitoring, medication management, and patient education. Factors such as insurance acceptance, particularly the availability of providers accepting Medicaid and Medicare, further impact accessibility for vulnerable populations.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves examining several indicators. This includes the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices that consistently monitor blood pressure, offer lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and effectively manage medication regimens are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

Another significant factor is patient satisfaction. Reviewing patient feedback, including online reviews and patient surveys, can provide insights into the patient experience. Practices with positive reviews, indicating a patient-centered approach and effective communication, often demonstrate a commitment to quality care. The implementation of patient portals and other digital tools can enhance communication and patient engagement.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in hypertension management, offering several benefits. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

The extent of telemedicine adoption within ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston is a critical consideration. Practices that have embraced telehealth technologies can potentially reach a wider patient base, provide more frequent monitoring, and improve medication adherence. The availability of telehealth services, including the ability to connect with specialists remotely, can significantly impact the quality of care.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. The integration of mental health resources into hypertension care is thus crucial.

Assessing the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through referrals is essential. Practices that offer on-site behavioral health specialists or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the psychological factors that can influence hypertension management. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston**

To provide a more specific analysis, access to detailed data is needed. This includes:

* **Physician Demographics:** The number of PCPs, cardiologists, and nephrologists practicing within ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston.
* **Practice Characteristics:** The size of practices, their affiliations (e.g., hospital systems), and the types of services offered.
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the use of remote monitoring devices and virtual consultations.
* **Mental Health Integration:** The availability of mental health services, either within the practice or through referral networks.
* **Patient Outcomes Data:** Data on blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Community Health Resources:** The presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources that provide access to care for underserved populations.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

Several challenges may affect hypertension management in this area. These could include a shortage of specialists, limited access to mental health services, and a lack of awareness about the importance of hypertension control.

Opportunities exist to improve care. These include expanding telehealth services, implementing patient education programs, and strengthening collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. Community outreach initiatives, such as health fairs and educational workshops, can also play a vital role in raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles.

**Conclusion**

A comprehensive assessment of hypertension care in ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, the quality of care provided by standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating these factors and identifying areas for improvement.

**Take the Next Step: Explore the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27832 and Gaston, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, allowing you to explore the area's healthcare resources in a dynamic and insightful way. CartoChrome maps can offer a visual representation of the information discussed, making it easier to identify areas with high needs and opportunities for improvement.