27973, Shawboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.36 percent of the residents in 27973 has some form of health insurance. 28.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.44 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 27973 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 202 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27973. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 240 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 214 health care providers accessible to residents in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina.

The assessment of hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 27973, encompassing Shawboro, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive resources, ultimately formulating a "Hypertension Score" for the area. This score, though not a single numerical value, represents a composite understanding of the community’s capacity to address this significant public health concern.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a foundational element. Shawboro, being a relatively rural area, likely experiences challenges in this regard. A high physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, often translates to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside information from professional medical organizations, would be crucial in establishing a baseline. The presence of primary care physicians, internal medicine specialists, and cardiologists within the ZIP code or a reasonable commuting distance is critical. A lack of these specialists would negatively impact the Hypertension Score, as patients with complex cases or those requiring specialized interventions might face significant barriers to accessing care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key criteria. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to hypertension management would score favorably. This includes the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices that routinely screen patients for hypertension, provide comprehensive patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and offer medication management services would be considered strong contenders. Furthermore, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers would significantly enhance a practice’s score. Practices with certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians on staff, providing specialized support for patients with co-morbid conditions, would also be viewed positively.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas who may face transportation challenges or have limited mobility. Practices embracing telemedicine platforms would receive a higher score. This includes the use of secure video conferencing for appointments, patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers, and remote monitoring devices that transmit blood pressure readings directly to the physician. The availability of these technologies demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and proactive management.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or readily accessible through referral networks is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and offer integrated care, either through in-house services or collaborations with mental health providers, would receive a more favorable score. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for stress management would further contribute to a positive assessment.

The overall Hypertension Score for Shawboro, 27973, would be a reflection of these factors. Areas with a higher concentration of primary care physicians, strong telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and practices adhering to evidence-based guidelines would receive a higher score. Conversely, areas with limited physician availability, a lack of technological integration, and inadequate mental health support would receive a lower score. This score is not just a ranking; it's an indicator of the community's preparedness to address a prevalent and serious health issue.

The impact of these factors extends beyond clinical outcomes. A well-managed hypertension program can lead to reduced healthcare costs, improved quality of life for patients, and a healthier community overall. The availability of resources and the proactive approach of healthcare providers are essential in achieving these goals. This analysis emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to hypertension management, incorporating clinical expertise, technological innovation, and community support.

To further enhance this understanding and visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing for a more detailed assessment of physician locations, healthcare facility accessibility, and the availability of community resources related to hypertension management.