27860, Pantego, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.21 percent of the residents in 27860 has some form of health insurance. 42.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 27860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 592 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 526 health care providers accessible to residents in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 27860 & Pantego Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 27860, encompassing Pantego, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the crucial integration of mental health resources, culminating in a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the overall quality of care available. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, specifically in relation to hypertension management.

The foundation of effective hypertension care lies in access to primary care physicians. Pantego, as a small community within 27860, likely experiences challenges common to rural areas. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, where more physicians serve a smaller population, generally translates to improved access and potentially better patient management. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 27860 is essential. Public health reports and local healthcare directories should be consulted to determine this crucial metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact hypertension management. The presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine or family practice is paramount. These specialists are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling, and medication management, are highly desirable. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) and laboratory testing, streamlines the diagnostic process and allows for quicker interventions.

Identifying standout practices within 27860 requires a deeper dive. This involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the practice's commitment to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, and evaluating their overall patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those tracked by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. Examining the practice's approach to patient education, including providing resources on diet, exercise, and stress management, is also critical.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in hypertension management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, monitor their blood pressure at home, and receive medication adjustments. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual visits and remote blood pressure monitoring programs, can significantly improve access to care and patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to achieve higher scores on our "Hypertension Score" analysis.

The intricate connection between hypertension and mental health necessitates the integration of mental health resources. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure and hinder treatment effectiveness. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This could involve on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or readily available referrals. The availability of these resources is a critical component of a comprehensive hypertension management program.

The "Hypertension Score" for 27860 will be a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices (including physician qualifications, diagnostic capabilities, and patient satisfaction), the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension management. The final score would provide a comparative assessment of the healthcare landscape within the ZIP code, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized care. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is crucial for patients with complex cases or complications. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes are important factors to consider.

Furthermore, community resources play a vital role. The availability of local pharmacies, fitness centers, and support groups can significantly impact patient outcomes. Practices that actively collaborate with these community resources are better positioned to support their patients. The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population within 27860, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of hypertension. This information can help tailor the assessment and identify specific needs within the community.

The analysis should also take into account the cost of care. The affordability of medications, the availability of insurance coverage, and the overall cost of healthcare services can significantly impact patient access to care and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer financial assistance programs may score higher on the "Hypertension Score."

In conclusion, assessing hypertension management within 27860 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, from physician availability and practice characteristics to telemedicine adoption and mental health integration. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, empowering patients and healthcare providers to make informed decisions. A data-driven approach is essential to identify areas for improvement and ultimately enhance the quality of care for individuals managing hypertension within the Pantego area.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape of 27860, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a detailed, geographically-based understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.