28412, Wilmington, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 28412 has some form of health insurance. 33.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.15 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 28412 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28412. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,928 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28412 and Primary Care in Wilmington**

Analyzing hypertension management within Wilmington's 28412 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective hypertension control rests on accessible primary care. Examining physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. In Wilmington, and specifically within 28412, the availability of primary care physicians significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely diagnoses, consistent monitoring, and personalized treatment plans. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of providers, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and potentially, compromised care. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates proactive management and improved patient outcomes.

Beyond simple ratios, the characteristics of primary care practices are critical. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to hypertension management. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a proactive approach, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and incorporating innovative strategies. They might employ dedicated nurses or medical assistants specializing in hypertension education and monitoring. They may also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for streamlined data collection, analysis, and patient communication. These practices often have established protocols for regular blood pressure checks, medication adjustments, and patient follow-up.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The integration of telemedicine offers significant advantages in managing hypertension, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in underserved areas. Telemedicine enables remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, medication refills, and educational resources. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in hypertension control. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and medication adherence. Practices that integrate mental health services or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This holistic approach addresses the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, leading to improved patient outcomes.

The availability of specialized resources, such as registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators, also contributes to effective hypertension management. These professionals can provide tailored guidance on lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes, exercise programs, and stress-reduction techniques. Practices that collaborate with these specialists offer patients a comprehensive support system, empowering them to actively manage their condition.

The 28412 ZIP code area, like many communities, likely presents a diverse spectrum of primary care practices. Some may excel in specific areas, such as patient education or telemedicine integration, while others may face challenges related to staffing shortages or resource limitations. Identifying these variations requires a detailed analysis of each practice's capabilities, infrastructure, and patient outcomes.

Assessing the overall quality of hypertension management necessitates a comprehensive review of data. This includes analyzing patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, rates of complications (e.g., heart attacks, strokes), and medication adherence. Furthermore, patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the effectiveness of the care provided.

The availability of community resources also impacts hypertension management. Access to affordable medications, healthy food options, and exercise facilities can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their condition. Practices that partner with community organizations to provide these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

In conclusion, evaluating hypertension management within ZIP code 28412 and the broader Wilmington area demands a thorough examination of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the availability of specialized resources. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a healthier community. The analysis must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of "standout practices" with proactive approaches, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive view of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, including the distribution of primary care practices, the locations of pharmacies, and the availability of community resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable spatial perspective, allowing you to visualize the data and identify patterns and trends.