28144, Salisbury, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28144, Salisbury, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 28144 has some form of health insurance. 45.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.90 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 28144 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,866 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28144. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,669 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,363 health care providers accessible to residents in 28144, Salisbury, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Salisbury, NC (ZIP Code 28144)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within Salisbury, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28144), focusing on primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective hypertension control, ultimately aiming to inform residents about their healthcare options. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Salisbury, while not readily available as a precise, up-to-the-minute statistic, is a critical indicator. National averages and regional trends suggest that the area may face challenges in this regard. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less proactive approach to hypertension screening and management. This impacts early detection and consistent monitoring, which are essential for controlling high blood pressure.

Primary care practices in Salisbury exhibit varying characteristics. Some practices are part of larger healthcare systems, offering integrated services and potentially greater access to specialists. Others are smaller, independent practices that may offer a more personalized approach. The size and structure of a practice can influence its ability to implement best practices in hypertension management. For example, larger systems often have resources to invest in electronic health records (EHRs) with built-in hypertension management protocols, automated reminders for follow-up appointments, and data analytics to track patient outcomes.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes not only regular blood pressure monitoring and medication management but also patient education, lifestyle counseling, and referrals to specialists when needed. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition, are likely to achieve better outcomes. Identifying these standout practices involves looking at patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, and the availability of resources like registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing hypertension care. Telemedicine, including virtual visits, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more frequent check-ins, provide timely medication adjustments, and facilitate better communication between patients and their providers. The extent to which practices in Salisbury have integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management programs is a key element in this analysis.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is a significant consideration. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and offer access to counseling or psychiatric services are better positioned to provide holistic care. This integrated approach can address the underlying factors that may be exacerbating hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" is a composite measure, considering the factors discussed above. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that supports effective hypertension management. This includes a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices that embrace best practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing and receiving optimal hypertension care.

In Salisbury, the overall score is likely influenced by the interplay of these factors. The specific characteristics of individual practices, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health services will ultimately determine the overall quality of hypertension care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The evaluation of primary care availability and the effectiveness of hypertension management requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis has touched upon key elements, but further investigation is needed to paint a complete picture. This includes gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, and evaluating the availability of supportive services.

The information provided here is intended to inform and empower residents of Salisbury, NC. Understanding the local healthcare landscape is the first step toward making informed decisions about your health. The next step is to find a primary care physician and to have regular checkups.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Salisbury, including the locations of primary care practices and their proximity to your location, consider exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the availability of healthcare resources in your area.