27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.12 percent of the residents in 27953 has some form of health insurance. 42.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.59 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 27953 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27953. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 197 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 840 health care providers accessible to residents in 27953, Manns Harbor, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Manns Harbor (ZIP Code 27953)

Manns Harbor, North Carolina, a small coastal community, presents a unique challenge when analyzing healthcare access, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis will delve into a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for physicians practicing within the 27953 ZIP code, evaluating factors crucial for effective hypertension control and primary care availability. This score is a conceptual framework, as no official, standardized scoring system exists.

The foundation of a strong Hypertension Score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Manns Harbor's relative isolation, coupled with the potential for a seasonal population surge, likely impacts physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, inherently lowers the score. This is further complicated by the demographics of the area. A significant elderly population, a known risk factor for hypertension, could strain existing resources. The score must account for this.

The availability of primary care itself is critical. Are there consistent, readily available appointments? Are practices accepting new patients? Long wait times and closed practices severely impact the score. The analysis needs to consider the operational hours of local practices, including after-hours care options. Access to weekend and evening appointments, or after-hours telephone consultations, will positively influence the score.

A crucial component is the presence of comprehensive hypertension management services. This includes routine blood pressure monitoring, both in-office and potentially through home monitoring programs. The availability of in-house diagnostic capabilities, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs) and basic laboratory tests, enhances the score. Practices offering specialized hypertension education for patients, including dietary and lifestyle recommendations, will be viewed favorably.

Standout practices within the 27953 ZIP code, if any, would demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This could manifest in several ways. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient data and facilitate communication would receive a higher score. EHRs enable better tracking of blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and overall patient progress. Practices actively engaging in patient outreach, such as sending reminders for appointments or offering proactive follow-up calls, would also be considered.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for medication management and routine follow-ups, can greatly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Manns Harbor. Practices offering telemedicine services, especially those with user-friendly platforms and clear instructions for patients, would see a significant boost in their score. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. A high-performing practice recognizes this connection and integrates mental health support into its care model. This could include on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists or counselors, or the availability of educational materials on stress management techniques. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and proactively address these concerns will earn a higher score.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology services, also influences the score, although to a lesser extent. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for hypertension management, access to cardiology specialists for complex cases or diagnostic testing is essential. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the responsiveness of specialist offices all contribute to the overall score.

Medication management is a core element. Practices that offer medication reconciliation services, ensuring patients are taking the correct medications at the appropriate dosages, receive a higher score. This includes regularly reviewing medication lists, addressing potential drug interactions, and providing patient education on medication adherence. Practices that have strong relationships with local pharmacies, facilitating easy prescription refills and medication delivery, also contribute positively.

Patient education and empowerment are essential for effective hypertension control. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications will be highly rated. This includes providing educational materials in multiple formats (e.g., pamphlets, online resources), offering group education sessions, and encouraging patient participation in their own care. Practices that actively involve patients in decision-making and support self-management efforts will score higher.

Finally, the overall patient experience plays a significant role. This includes factors such as the friendliness and helpfulness of staff, the cleanliness and comfort of the office environment, and the ease of scheduling appointments. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and actively solicit feedback will likely have a higher score. Reviews and ratings on online platforms, although subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and influence the score.

The hypothetical Hypertension Score for physicians in Manns Harbor, 27953, is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, and the potential for limited specialized services will likely present hurdles. However, practices that actively embrace telemedicine, integrate mental health support, and prioritize patient education and engagement can significantly improve their score and provide better care for their patients.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Manns Harbor and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and potential gaps in care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. Explore the power of data visualization to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and opportunities for improvement.