28409, Wilmington, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28409, Wilmington, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.87 percent of the residents in 28409 has some form of health insurance. 23.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.22 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 28409 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,619 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28409. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,968 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,020 health care providers accessible to residents in 28409, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28409)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Wilmington, North Carolina’s 28409 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors ranging from physician availability to the integration of innovative healthcare delivery models, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced 'Hypertension Score' assessment. The score, though not explicitly quantified here, will be implied through a discussion of strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the cornerstone of hypertension management. Their availability is crucial for early detection, ongoing monitoring, and effective treatment. In 28409, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to care, and potentially, poorer blood pressure control. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to calculate this ratio. This data needs to be coupled with information on the specific number of patients each practice manages, which is often proprietary.

The concentration of PCPs within the 28409 ZIP code also matters. Are they evenly distributed, or are there areas with limited access, particularly for vulnerable populations? This geographical analysis is crucial for identifying potential healthcare deserts. Moreover, the types of practices available—solo practices, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems—impact the patient experience. Larger systems often have more resources, including specialized staff and advanced technology, which can positively influence hypertension management.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. These practices may excel in several areas. Perhaps they demonstrate superior patient outcomes, as measured by blood pressure control rates. They may have implemented innovative patient education programs, providing resources to help patients understand their condition and manage their lifestyle. They could also have adopted efficient appointment scheduling systems, minimizing wait times and improving patient satisfaction. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a model for others in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly enhance hypertension care. Telemedicine reduces the burden of travel for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. It also allows for more frequent monitoring and timely intervention. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly those offering remote blood pressure monitoring, should be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in hypertension management, but its importance cannot be overstated. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integrated approach can lead to improved patient outcomes and overall well-being. The presence of mental health services within the 28409 ZIP code, and their accessibility to primary care patients, is a key component of a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment.

Insurance coverage and affordability also play a significant role. The percentage of residents in 28409 with health insurance, and the types of insurance plans accepted by local practices, impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, and offer financial assistance programs to patients, contribute to a more equitable healthcare system. This aspect is particularly relevant for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, which often require ongoing medication and monitoring.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can bolster patient self-management. These resources empower patients to take an active role in their care. The presence of such resources within the 28409 ZIP code, and their accessibility to patients, is a positive indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

Analyzing the 'Hypertension Score' also involves evaluating the availability of specialized services. Cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists play a vital role in managing complex hypertension cases. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists to PCPs within the 28409 ZIP code is crucial for timely referrals and coordinated care.

The presence of pharmacies and their accessibility is another important consideration. Convenient access to medication refills and pharmacist consultations can improve medication adherence, a key factor in controlling blood pressure. The density of pharmacies within the 28409 ZIP code, and their operating hours, contribute to the overall 'Hypertension Score'.

Finally, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are critical for care coordination. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, ensuring that all members of the care team are informed. Practices that utilize robust EHR systems, and actively participate in data sharing initiatives, are better positioned to provide coordinated and effective hypertension management.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Hypertension Score' for doctors in ZIP code 28409 and primary care availability in Wilmington is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough analysis of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, insurance coverage, community support, specialist access, pharmacy access, and EHR interoperability. This information is vital for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources within the 28409 ZIP code, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial relationships between patients, providers, and resources, further enhancing your understanding of hypertension care in Wilmington.