28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.04 percent of the residents in 28338 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.90 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 28338 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 922 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28338. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 718 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,316 health care providers accessible to residents in 28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ellerbe, NC (ZIP Code 28338)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 28338, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Ellerbe, North Carolina. The goal is to assess the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension. We will evaluate factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and its effectiveness in addressing this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests upon accessible and qualified primary care providers. In Ellerbe, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A high ratio, reflecting a limited number of physicians serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and potentially compromised patient care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater availability and potentially improved outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires analyzing the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to calculate this ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care providers is also crucial. Are physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community? Geographic accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, significantly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent care. The presence of multiple primary care practices, especially those accepting new patients, is a positive indicator.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to hypertension management best practices. This includes assessing their use of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Key metrics to consider are the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of home blood pressure monitoring, the implementation of medication adherence programs, and the provision of patient education materials. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to these elements are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to revolutionize hypertension care, particularly in rural areas like Ellerbe. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups and medication management. The availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring tools, and secure messaging platforms can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and patient-centered care.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, and this is particularly true for hypertension. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can negatively impact blood pressure control and overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is essential. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and the provision of resources for stress management and coping strategies. Practices that prioritize mental health are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacies, diagnostic laboratories, and cardiovascular specialists, contributes to the overall quality of hypertension care. Proximity to these services reduces the burden on patients and facilitates timely access to necessary treatments and evaluations. The presence of a well-coordinated healthcare network enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery.

In assessing the quality of care, patient satisfaction surveys are a valuable tool. Feedback from patients provides insights into their experiences with the healthcare system, including their perceptions of communication, accessibility, and the effectiveness of their treatment. Practices that actively solicit and respond to patient feedback are likely to continuously improve their services.

The availability of community resources also plays a role in hypertension management. Programs that promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes, nutrition counseling, and smoking cessation support, can empower patients to take control of their health. Collaboration between primary care practices and community organizations can create a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment.

Evaluating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between providers, improve care coordination, and enable data-driven decision-making. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better positioned to monitor patient progress, identify potential risks, and tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

Finally, the commitment of healthcare providers to ongoing professional development is a crucial factor. Staying abreast of the latest advancements in hypertension management and participating in continuing medical education ensures that physicians are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the best possible care. Practices that prioritize professional development are more likely to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of hypertension care in Ellerbe, NC (ZIP code 28338) requires a multifaceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the adoption of best practices, assessing telemedicine capabilities, and examining the integration of mental health resources are all essential components of a comprehensive evaluation. A thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the availability of community resources and the commitment to patient-centered care, is crucial for improving outcomes and addressing the challenges of hypertension in this community.

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and access to care in Ellerbe and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and assess the impact of geographic factors on patient outcomes.