27880, Sims, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27880, Sims, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.60 percent of the residents in 27880 has some form of health insurance. 35.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.95 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 27880 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 842 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27880. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 952 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,048 health care providers accessible to residents in 27880, Sims, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27880 & Primary Care in Sims

Analyzing the state of hypertension management within ZIP Code 27880, encompassing the town of Sims, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources they offer, ultimately culminating in a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" that reflects the overall quality of care available to residents. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in managing this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Sims, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can strain resources and potentially lead to delayed appointments, less comprehensive care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients with hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater accessibility and potentially better management. Specific data on the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 27880 is crucial for accurately assessing the situation. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the US Census Bureau can provide insights into the population size and the number of practicing primary care physicians in the area.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices in Sims play a significant role. Do these practices offer comprehensive services, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling (diet and exercise), and medication management? Do they have certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians on staff to assist patients with lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension control? The presence of these resources significantly impacts the quality of care. Practices that prioritize patient education and proactive intervention tend to achieve better outcomes.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 27880 deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, innovative approaches to care, or a strong commitment to community health. Identifying these practices requires examining their patient satisfaction scores, their adherence to clinical guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., guidelines from the American Heart Association), and their use of technology to improve patient care. Are they actively involved in community outreach programs to raise awareness about hypertension and promote healthy lifestyles? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to increase accessibility for working individuals?

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The use of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve hypertension management. Telemedicine can enhance accessibility, particularly for patients in rural areas like Sims, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and enabling more convenient follow-up care. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide timely interventions and support patients in managing their condition effectively. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 27880 is essential.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or in the broader community is crucial. Do primary care physicians have access to mental health specialists for referrals? Do they screen patients for mental health conditions? The integration of mental health services into primary care can provide a more holistic approach to hypertension management, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 27880 would be a composite measure reflecting all these factors. It would be a hypothetical score, not a real one, as this analysis is based on publicly available information and assumptions. It would incorporate the physician-to-patient ratio, the comprehensiveness of primary care services, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive outcomes for patients with hypertension. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

For example, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, offering comprehensive services, utilizing telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources would receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited services, and no telemedicine or mental health integration would receive a lower score. The score would provide a snapshot of the overall quality of hypertension management within the area.

Ultimately, improving hypertension management in Sims requires a collaborative effort. It involves ensuring adequate primary care physician availability, supporting practices in providing comprehensive services, encouraging the adoption of telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential to identify areas for improvement and track progress over time. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the current state of affairs and identifying opportunities to enhance the health and well-being of residents in ZIP Code 27880.

To visualize and analyze the distribution of primary care resources, patient demographics, and health outcomes related to hypertension within ZIP Code 27880, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, enabling a more in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities in managing hypertension within the community.