28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.98 percent of the residents in 28320 has some form of health insurance. 42.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.73 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 28320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,985 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28320. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,334 health care providers accessible to residents in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Bladenboro, NC (ZIP Code 28320)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning hypertension management, within Bladenboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28320), requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider physician density, the quality of primary care providers, the integration of telehealth, and the accessibility of mental health services, all factors directly influencing a patient's ability to effectively manage hypertension. This analysis will culminate in a "Hypertension Score" assessment, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is consistent primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Bladenboro is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, a general understanding of the ratio can be derived from publicly available data, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can strain access to care. This scarcity may lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical interventions for patients with elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, a limited pool of primary care physicians can restrict patient choice, forcing individuals to travel further for specialized care or to seek alternative, potentially less-qualified, providers.

Within Bladenboro, identifying standout primary care practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and patient education. Reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings, and examining the practice’s adherence to evidence-based guidelines (e.g., those published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology) are key indicators of quality. Practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as offering regular screenings and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, are particularly valuable in managing hypertension. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other allied health professionals within a practice further enhances its capacity to support patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Hypertension Score. Telehealth offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas like Bladenboro, where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor blood pressure, and provide medication management via telehealth platforms can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, improving convenience and accessibility for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, integrated with telehealth platforms, further enhances the effectiveness of hypertension management.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and complicate treatment. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health resources within Bladenboro is a vital component of the Hypertension Score. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within primary care practices, are particularly beneficial, as they facilitate coordinated care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and community resources for managing stress and promoting mental well-being also contribute positively to the overall score.

The "Hypertension Score" for Bladenboro, NC (ZIP Code 28320) will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for hypertension management. This score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. For example, the opening of a new primary care clinic or the expansion of telemedicine services would likely increase the score. Conversely, a shortage of mental health professionals or a lack of access to specialist care would negatively impact the score.

To further refine the analysis, it's important to consider socioeconomic factors that can influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food options, and limited educational opportunities can all contribute to poor health outcomes, including uncontrolled hypertension. Understanding these social determinants of health is crucial for developing effective interventions and improving the overall Hypertension Score. Community-based programs that address these social needs can play a vital role in supporting patients and improving health outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare infrastructure in Bladenboro, NC, for hypertension management reveals a complex picture. While the presence of primary care providers and the potential for telemedicine adoption offer promise, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of mental health resources require close examination. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the overall healthcare environment and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more comprehensive and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bladenboro, NC, and other areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, analyze patient demographics, and identify areas with the greatest need for improved hypertension management. Explore the power of data visualization and geospatial analysis to improve health outcomes.