28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.01 percent of the residents in 28017 has some form of health insurance. 7.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.86 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 28017 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28017. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 862 health care providers accessible to residents in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 28017 (Boiling Springs, NC)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare resources in ZIP code 28017, focusing on factors crucial for managing hypertension. We examine physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support – all critical elements in delivering effective and accessible care for individuals managing this chronic condition. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Hypertension Score" for this area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

Boiling Springs, North Carolina, a community with a population of approximately 4,500 residents, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its rural setting and proximity to larger urban centers like Shelby, NC, shape the availability and accessibility of medical services. Understanding the specific dynamics within this ZIP code is essential for both residents and healthcare providers seeking to improve hypertension management.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental aspect of hypertension care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in 28017 is a critical indicator of access. Data suggests that the area might experience some challenges in this regard. The relative scarcity of PCPs compared to the overall population could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This scarcity also impacts the ability of patients to establish consistent relationships with their PCPs, a key factor in effective chronic disease management.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists, particularly cardiologists and nephrologists, is also crucial. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for hypertension management, access to specialists is essential for complex cases or when complications arise. The proximity of these specialists to the 28017 ZIP code, and their ability to accept new patients, significantly affects the overall "Hypertension Score."

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Within 28017, and the surrounding areas, certain practices demonstrate exemplary approaches to hypertension management. These practices often emphasize patient education, proactive monitoring, and personalized treatment plans. They may employ registered nurses or certified medical assistants who are specifically trained in hypertension management, providing dedicated support to patients.

These standout practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for better data tracking, medication management, and communication between healthcare providers. They might also implement patient portals, enabling patients to access their medical records, communicate with their care teams, and schedule appointments online. This enhanced accessibility is crucial for improving patient adherence to treatment plans.

Furthermore, these practices often prioritize preventative care, offering regular screenings for blood pressure and other risk factors. They might also provide educational materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are vital components of hypertension management. The presence of such practices significantly elevates the "Hypertension Score" for the area.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Boiling Springs. Its adoption within the 28017 ZIP code is a critical factor in assessing the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making it easier to monitor blood pressure and adjust medications.

The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Remote patient monitoring, in particular, allows healthcare providers to track blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other vital signs, providing valuable insights into a patient's health status. This data-driven approach enables timely interventions and adjustments to treatment plans, ultimately improving hypertension control.

The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of necessary technology and patient training, directly impacts the "Hypertension Score." Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are better positioned to provide accessible and effective care.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Hypertension is often associated with mental health challenges, such as stress and anxiety. The integration of mental health resources into hypertension care is therefore crucial. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key factor in assessing the "Hypertension Score."

Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes by addressing the underlying psychological factors that may contribute to hypertension.

Furthermore, educational programs that promote stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can also be beneficial. The availability of these resources, and their integration into the overall care plan, significantly improves the "Hypertension Score."

**Overall "Hypertension Score" Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for 28017 is likely moderate. While the area benefits from some dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine integration, challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialists could impact the overall score. The degree of mental health integration also plays a crucial role.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," the following actions are recommended: increasing the number of PCPs and specialists in the area; expanding telemedicine services; promoting patient education and self-management; and integrating mental health resources into hypertension care.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28017, including specific practice locations, physician availability, and telemedicine capabilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights into healthcare resources, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.