27981, Wanchese, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 27981, Wanchese, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.76 percent of the residents in 27981 has some form of health insurance. 28.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.76 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 27981 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 548 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27981. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 304 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 740 health care providers accessible to residents in 27981, Wanchese, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wanchese, NC (ZIP Code 27981)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality in Wanchese, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing the management of hypertension, a prevalent health concern. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to hypertension management, and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27981, aiming to derive a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the community's capacity to address this critical health issue.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Wanchese, a relatively small community, presents specific challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. National averages often fail to capture the realities of rural areas. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 27981 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide initial insights, although these figures may need refinement to account for factors like physician specialization and patient demographics.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within Wanchese is important. Centralized clinics might offer greater efficiency but could create transportation barriers for some residents. Conversely, smaller, more localized practices might provide more personalized care but may face challenges in terms of resources and staffing. Investigating the geographic distribution of primary care providers, including their hours of operation, acceptance of new patients, and insurance coverage, is crucial. This involves examining the physical locations of practices, their proximity to residential areas, and the availability of public transportation.

Identifying standout practices within Wanchese is key to understanding the strengths of the local healthcare system. These practices may demonstrate exemplary hypertension management protocols, including regular blood pressure screenings, comprehensive patient education, and effective medication management. A practice that actively utilizes electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, share information with specialists, and facilitate medication adherence is likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, practices that emphasize patient education and self-management strategies, such as dietary recommendations and exercise programs, are essential for long-term success in controlling hypertension.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine services for hypertension management in Wanchese is an important factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication management, and specialist referrals. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies can provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions can significantly impact blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Wanchese is a critical component of the "Hypertension Score." This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. The availability of counseling services, support groups, and mental health education programs is also important. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their hypertension management protocols are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

The quality of care provided by local pharmacies is also a factor. The availability of medication adherence programs, pharmacist consultations, and medication reviews can significantly impact patients' ability to manage their hypertension effectively. Evaluating the services offered by local pharmacies, including their ability to provide medication refills, offer patient counseling, and facilitate communication with physicians, contributes to a comprehensive assessment of the community's capacity to address hypertension.

Finally, community health initiatives play a vital role in promoting cardiovascular health. Public health campaigns that raise awareness about hypertension, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage regular screenings are essential. The presence of community-based programs that offer free or low-cost blood pressure screenings, educational workshops, and exercise classes can significantly improve the overall health of the population. Assessing the level of community engagement in promoting cardiovascular health is an important aspect of the "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" for Wanchese, NC (27981) is not a static number. It is a reflection of the dynamic interplay between physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, pharmacy services, and community health initiatives. A high score indicates a strong healthcare infrastructure that supports effective hypertension management, while a low score highlights areas that require improvement. This analysis, while comprehensive, is a starting point. A detailed assessment requires a deeper dive into specific data points, qualitative interviews with healthcare providers and patients, and a thorough examination of the local healthcare landscape.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Wanchese and the surrounding areas, explore the data with CartoChrome maps.