27943, Hatteras, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 27943 has some form of health insurance. 36.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.27 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 27943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33 health care providers accessible to residents in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27943 & Primary Care Availability in Hatteras**

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians within ZIP code 27943, focusing on Hatteras, North Carolina, with a specific emphasis on factors relevant to hypertension management. We'll assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of providing accessible and effective care for individuals managing hypertension.

The foundation of hypertension management is access to a primary care physician. The physician-to-patient ratio in Hatteras, a relatively small and geographically isolated community, is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a favorable ratio supports more personalized and proactive hypertension management. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, the remoteness of Hatteras suggests that the ratio might be less favorable compared to more densely populated areas. This scarcity of primary care physicians underscores the importance of optimizing existing resources and exploring innovative solutions.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 27943 involves evaluating several key criteria. The quality of care provided is paramount. This can be assessed through patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the practice's demonstrated commitment to evidence-based hypertension management guidelines. Practices that actively monitor patient blood pressure, provide comprehensive education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and offer personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs are likely to excel. Moreover, practices that emphasize patient communication and collaboration, ensuring patients feel informed and empowered in their care, are highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving healthcare access, especially in rural communities like Hatteras. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving appointment availability. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide more convenient care. The effectiveness of telemedicine in hypertension management has been well-documented, with studies showing that it can lead to improved blood pressure control and patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in Hatteras is, of course, a key enabler for successful telemedicine implementation.

The relationship between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment regimens. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with local mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of hypertension. Access to mental health services in Hatteras may be limited, necessitating collaboration between primary care physicians and regional mental health providers.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a detailed investigation. This includes contacting local practices, reviewing their websites, and examining their patient communication materials. It also involves investigating the availability of mental health services in the area, including the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The availability of pharmacies within the community is also relevant, as it affects patients' ability to readily access their prescribed medications.

The challenges of providing healthcare in a rural area like Hatteras are significant. The geographic isolation, limited resources, and potential for a smaller patient pool can create obstacles. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Practices that are willing to embrace technology, partner with other healthcare providers, and prioritize patient-centered care are best positioned to succeed.

The assessment of practices in ZIP code 27943 should consider the following: the availability of after-hours care, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination, the presence of bilingual staff to serve diverse populations, and the practice's commitment to ongoing professional development for its physicians and staff. Practices that are actively engaged in these areas demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered care.

The data gathered from these various sources should be synthesized to produce a hypertension score for each practice within the zip code. This score should reflect the practice's performance across the key areas outlined above: physician-to-patient ratio, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to resources. The score can be used to identify the practices that are best equipped to manage hypertension effectively.

Finally, the analysis should include recommendations for improving hypertension care in Hatteras. These recommendations might include: advocating for increased funding for healthcare services in rural areas, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, encouraging collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers, and supporting community-based health education programs. By addressing these issues, the community can improve the health outcomes of its residents and create a healthier future for all.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hatteras and to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas where improvements are needed.