28405, Wilmington, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.12 percent of the residents in 28405 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.99 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 28405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28405. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,723 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28405)**

The city of Wilmington, North Carolina, particularly within the 28405 ZIP code, presents a complex landscape for hypertension management. This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care services, focusing on factors crucial for effective hypertension control. We’ll consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a 'Hypertension Score' assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility**

A fundamental element of hypertension management is access to a primary care physician (PCP). The physician-to-patient ratio in 28405 is a critical indicator. Data suggests a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population size. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced continuity of care, and challenges in establishing the consistent monitoring necessary for hypertension control. The impact is compounded by the area's demographics, which may include a higher proportion of elderly residents and individuals with chronic conditions, further increasing demand for primary care services.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Several primary care practices within 28405 demonstrate exemplary approaches to hypertension management. Some practices prioritize patient education, providing comprehensive materials on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and regular blood pressure monitoring. Others have implemented robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate proactive patient outreach, automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, and efficient data analysis to identify patients at high risk. These standout practices, often characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, can positively influence the overall hypertension management landscape within the ZIP code.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve hypertension care, especially in areas with limited access to in-person appointments. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 28405 varies. Some practices have embraced virtual consultations for medication management, follow-up appointments, and remote blood pressure monitoring. This can reduce the burden of travel for patients, increase appointment flexibility, and improve adherence to treatment plans. However, challenges remain, including ensuring reliable internet access for all patients, addressing the digital divide, and integrating telemedicine seamlessly into existing workflows.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate behavioral health specialists, offer on-site counseling, or establish strong referral networks with mental health providers are better positioned to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. The integration of mental health services can improve patient outcomes and promote long-term well-being.

**Specific Practice Examples and Analysis**

While specific practice names are not included, the analysis reveals several trends. Practices with a strong emphasis on patient education, using tools like patient portals and educational materials, are achieving better patient outcomes. Those with dedicated care coordinators who actively manage patient follow-up and medication adherence are also showing positive results. The adoption of remote patient monitoring, allowing patients to transmit blood pressure readings from home, is gaining traction, especially among practices serving a geographically dispersed patient population.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

The 28405 ZIP code faces several challenges. The physician shortage, coupled with the aging population and the prevalence of chronic diseases, creates significant demand for primary care services. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, including expanding the healthcare workforce, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening the integration of mental health services. Opportunities exist to leverage community resources, such as local health departments and community centers, to provide education and support to patients with hypertension.

**'Hypertension Score' Assessment (Conceptual)**

Based on the factors discussed, a hypothetical 'Hypertension Score' for the 28405 ZIP code would be a composite measure reflecting the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A lower ratio (more patients per physician) would negatively impact the score.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Higher adoption rates and effective integration would positively impact the score.
* **Mental Health Integration:** The presence of integrated mental health services and strong referral networks would positively impact the score.
* **Patient Education and Support:** Practices prioritizing patient education, providing resources, and using tools like patient portals would positively impact the score.
* **Standout Practices:** The number of practices demonstrating best practices in hypertension management would positively impact the score.

The final score would provide a relative assessment of the quality and accessibility of hypertension care within the ZIP code. It would be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients seeking to improve hypertension management.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

The effective management of hypertension in Wilmington's 28405 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. Improving access to primary care, expanding telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health resources, and promoting patient education are critical steps. A comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, including physician distribution, practice characteristics, and patient needs, is essential for developing effective strategies.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services, enabling informed decision-making and targeted interventions to improve hypertension management within the community.