28377, Red Springs, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28377, Red Springs, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.54 percent of the residents in 28377 has some form of health insurance. 52.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.72 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 28377 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,004 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28377. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,635 health care providers accessible to residents in 28377, Red Springs, North Carolina.

The analysis below examines the landscape of hypertension care in Red Springs, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28377), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' analysis, evaluating the overall environment for patients managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure. The goal is to provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Red Springs is a crucial indicator of access to care. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. This scarcity can also affect the ability of patients to establish consistent relationships with their primary care providers, which is vital for effective long-term management of chronic conditions like hypertension. The local health department and area hospitals play a significant role in addressing this issue through recruitment initiatives and outreach programs.

Standout practices in Red Springs, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes not only prescribing medication but also providing patient education on lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and stress reduction. Practices that actively monitor patient blood pressure, offer regular follow-up appointments, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress are likely to be more successful in controlling hypertension. The use of EHRs allows for better data analysis, identification of at-risk patients, and proactive intervention. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association, is another key factor.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. For hypertension management, this can involve virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and potentially improve medication adherence. The availability of reliable internet access in Red Springs is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of hypertension care. Stress and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, primary care practices that offer or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integration can involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health clinics, or the use of telehealth for mental health services. A comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being is essential for optimal hypertension management.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Red Springs would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, exemplary primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and a need for improvement in several areas. The local health department, area hospitals, and community organizations can play a crucial role in improving the 'Hypertension Score' through strategic initiatives.

Assessing the availability of primary care physicians in Red Springs involves more than just counting the number of doctors. It requires an understanding of their specialties, their willingness to accept new patients, and their ability to provide culturally competent care. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, is also important, particularly for patients with complex hypertension or related conditions. The availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and pharmacists, can also impact the quality of care.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also depends on patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that provide patient education materials, offer reminders for appointments and medication refills, and encourage patients to actively participate in their care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Community outreach programs and support groups can also play a valuable role in empowering patients and promoting healthy behaviors.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the physician-to-patient ratio, monitoring telemedicine adoption rates, and assessing the integration of mental health resources. The data collected can be used to identify areas for improvement and to measure the impact of interventions. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports patients in managing their hypertension effectively and improving their overall health and well-being.

The implementation of population health management strategies is also crucial. This involves identifying high-risk patients, providing targeted interventions, and monitoring outcomes. Practices that utilize data analytics to track patient populations and identify trends can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their hypertension management programs. Collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers is also essential for providing coordinated care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Red Springs, including the locations of primary care providers, the availability of specialists, and the presence of healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to analyze healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care. Utilize CartoChrome maps to gain a comprehensive view of the healthcare environment in Red Springs and support informed decision-making.