28401, Wilmington, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.39 percent of the residents in 28401 has some form of health insurance. 44.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.42 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 28401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28401. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28401)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Wilmington, North Carolina's 28401 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care delivered, the integration of technology, and the support systems in place for patients managing this chronic condition. This analysis aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

One of the primary determinants of a favorable hypertension score is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a doctor can dedicate to each patient. In 28401, this ratio fluctuates, influenced by factors like population growth and physician recruitment efforts. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, can be utilized to approximate this ratio. However, a true understanding necessitates considering the specific practices accepting new patients and the patient demographics they serve. Areas with a higher concentration of elderly residents, for example, may experience greater demand for primary care services, potentially impacting the physician-to-patient ratio.

The quality of care is paramount. This encompasses several key elements, including the accuracy of diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the ongoing monitoring of patient progress. Within 28401, assessing quality necessitates evaluating the adherence to established clinical guidelines for hypertension management, such as those provided by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. This involves examining the frequency of blood pressure checks, the use of appropriate medications, and the implementation of lifestyle modifications, such as dietary recommendations and exercise programs. Data on patient outcomes, such as the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, is a crucial metric. Unfortunately, this data is often difficult to obtain due to privacy regulations and the proprietary nature of healthcare data.

Several primary care practices in 28401 stand out in their approach to hypertension management. While specific practice names are omitted to avoid bias, certain clinics may distinguish themselves through their commitment to patient education, their use of innovative technologies, or their proactive outreach programs. These practices often emphasize a team-based approach, involving physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators. They might also implement patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their care team, and track their blood pressure readings.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in hypertension management. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. In 28401, the adoption of telemedicine varies among practices. Some practices have fully embraced virtual visits, offering convenient and accessible care options. Others may be in the early stages of adoption, utilizing telemedicine for specific purposes, such as medication refills or follow-up appointments. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the overall hypertension care plan significantly impacts the 'Hypertension Score'.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, primary care practices in 28401 that offer or facilitate access to mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This may include on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or the implementation of screening tools to identify patients in need of mental health support. The availability and accessibility of these resources contribute positively to the overall 'Hypertension Score'.

The availability of support groups and educational programs also enhances the quality of care. Patients benefit from connecting with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences, and gaining valuable insights. Practices that offer or promote participation in support groups, such as those organized by the American Heart Association or local community organizations, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Educational programs, covering topics such as healthy eating, exercise, and stress management, empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition.

A significant challenge in assessing the 'Hypertension Score' is the lack of readily available, comprehensive data. While publicly available data provides a starting point, a more detailed analysis would require access to patient-level data, which is typically protected by privacy regulations. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of the healthcare landscape, with practices opening, closing, and adapting to new technologies and treatment guidelines, necessitates ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for 28401 is a complex assessment, influenced by a multitude of factors. While the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care are critical, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of support systems also play significant roles. The practices that excel in these areas are better positioned to provide effective and patient-centered hypertension management.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, and to visualize the distribution of resources and access points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the demographics of the population, and other relevant factors, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.