28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.15 percent of the residents in 28357 has some form of health insurance. 51.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.75 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 28357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 525 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28357. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 388 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,765 health care providers accessible to residents in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Lumber Bridge, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28357) requires a multifaceted approach. A "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the availability, quality, and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of high blood pressure. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension management.

The population of Lumber Bridge is relatively small, which impacts the availability of healthcare resources. This area is primarily rural, and access to primary care physicians is a significant factor in hypertension management. The physician-to-patient ratio in this specific ZIP code is likely less favorable than in more urban areas. This means fewer doctors are available to serve the population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. The limited number of physicians also strains the existing healthcare infrastructure, increasing the workload on each practitioner.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling are all essential. In Lumber Bridge, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate care. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners is crucial. The proximity of these providers to the community is also a critical factor. The ease of access, including transportation options, significantly influences the ability of patients to adhere to their treatment plans.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. While a formal ranking system may not exist, certain practices may demonstrate superior patient outcomes, innovative approaches to care, or a strong commitment to community health. These practices might be characterized by their focus on patient education, proactive outreach to at-risk individuals, or the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management. Examining patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing online testimonials, and assessing the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives can help identify these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Lumber Bridge. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication management via telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. The level of telemedicine integration within local practices is a key indicator of the community's commitment to providing accessible and convenient care. The availability of secure and reliable internet access is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources play a vital role in hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to mental health professionals are essential. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The ability of primary care physicians to screen for mental health conditions and provide appropriate referrals is a critical component of comprehensive hypertension care.

The "Hypertension Score" for Lumber Bridge, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The scarcity of primary care physicians, the potential challenges of access, and the limited availability of specialized services all contribute to a lower score. Conversely, the adoption of telemedicine, the commitment of certain practices to patient education, and the availability of mental health resources would contribute to a higher score.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," several interventions are possible. Recruiting more primary care physicians to the area would be a primary step. Expanding telemedicine services and promoting the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices could improve access to care. Encouraging practices to implement evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management and to participate in quality improvement initiatives would also be beneficial. Finally, increasing the availability of mental health resources and integrating mental health services into primary care practices would address the important link between mental health and blood pressure control.

The overall assessment of the healthcare landscape in Lumber Bridge suggests that while challenges exist, opportunities for improvement are readily available. The dedication of local healthcare providers and the implementation of innovative strategies can significantly enhance the quality of hypertension care and improve the health outcomes of residents.

For a more detailed, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lumber Bridge, including the locations of medical practices, the availability of specialists, and demographic data relevant to hypertension risk factors, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of care within the community.