27976, South Mills, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27976, South Mills, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.65 percent of the residents in 27976 has some form of health insurance. 23.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.56 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 27976 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,224 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27976. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 586 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 232 health care providers accessible to residents in 27976, South Mills, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27976 and Primary Care Availability in South Mills**

The evaluation of hypertension management within ZIP code 27976, encompassing South Mills, North Carolina, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of hypertension care. The ultimate goal is to assess the area's capacity to effectively manage this prevalent chronic condition and identify areas for improvement.

South Mills, a rural community, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. Primary care availability is a critical factor. The number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts patient access to preventative care, diagnosis, and ongoing management of hypertension. A low PCP-to-population ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased patient follow-up, and potentially, poorer health outcomes.

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio requires considering the number of active PCPs within the ZIP code and the total population. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential resources. The analysis should differentiate between general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians, as all play a role in hypertension care.

Standout practices within the area warrant specific recognition. These practices might excel in several areas. They may demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education, employing certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians to provide personalized guidance on lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension management. The practices could also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless data sharing, medication reconciliation, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines.

Another key indicator of quality is the implementation of standardized protocols for hypertension screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes the consistent use of blood pressure monitoring devices, regular follow-up appointments, and the prompt initiation of pharmacological interventions when necessary. High patient satisfaction scores, as reflected in patient surveys and online reviews, also provide valuable insight into the overall patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication management through digital platforms, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and the practice's ability to provide telehealth services that comply with HIPAA regulations.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Examining the availability of mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and medication management, is vital.

The availability of resources that support patient self-management is also essential. This includes access to educational materials, support groups, and community-based programs that promote healthy lifestyles. Assessing the availability of these resources is essential for understanding the overall quality of care.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to these specialists. Examining the proximity of these specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the ease of referral processes are critical considerations.

The overall assessment of hypertension care in ZIP code 27976 requires a holistic approach. This includes evaluating the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. The practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, evidence-based guidelines, and the use of technology are likely to provide the highest quality of care.

The evaluation should also consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and safe housing can significantly impact hypertension management. The analysis should consider the impact of these factors on the overall health of the community.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. Patients with limited or no insurance coverage may face significant barriers to accessing care. The analysis should consider the availability of affordable healthcare options, such as community health centers and sliding-scale payment programs.

In conclusion, the assessment of hypertension care in ZIP code 27976 requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. By evaluating the factors discussed above, it is possible to gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to improve the health outcomes of individuals living with hypertension in South Mills and the surrounding area.

For a detailed and visually informative map of the healthcare landscape in South Mills, including the location of practices, specialists, and available resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome.