28420, Ash, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 28420 has some form of health insurance. 51.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.97 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 28420 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28420. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 621 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,366 health care providers accessible to residents in 28420, Ash, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 28420 & Ash, NC

Analyzing hypertension management within ZIP code 28420, encompassing the Ash, North Carolina community, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, specific practice strengths, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, illuminating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. Within 28420, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the precise number of practicing primary care physicians, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, is the first step. This data, however, must be contextualized by population density. Ash, NC, is a relatively rural area, and the population distribution impacts access. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this, factoring in the distance patients must travel to reach a primary care physician, the waiting times for appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. A higher density of primary care physicians, coupled with shorter wait times and open practices, would contribute positively to the score. Conversely, limited availability would negatively impact the score, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and inadequate management of hypertension.

Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial indicators of healthcare accessibility. A favorable ratio, with a higher number of patients per physician, suggests potential strain on the system, leading to longer wait times and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally translates to increased access and more comprehensive care. The "Hypertension Score" will incorporate this ratio, providing a quantitative assessment of the workload burden on the existing primary care physicians in 28420. This analysis must also consider the age and health profile of the population. An aging population, or a population with a higher prevalence of chronic diseases, will place a greater demand on primary care resources, impacting the physician-to-patient ratio's significance.

Identifying standout practices within 28420 is a key component of this analysis. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Firstly, the practice's commitment to preventative care, including regular blood pressure screenings and patient education programs, is paramount. Secondly, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those published by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, will be assessed. Thirdly, the practice's patient satisfaction scores, as reflected in online reviews and patient surveys, will be considered. Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to these elements would receive higher marks, positively influencing the "Hypertension Score." This assessment will not name specific practices due to privacy concerns.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the extent to which primary care physicians in 28420 utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and medication management. Practices actively embracing telemedicine technologies will receive higher scores, reflecting their commitment to improving access to care and enhancing patient convenience. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas, thus improving their access to care.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential for effective hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and addressing these issues is crucial for overall health. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through referral networks. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site mental health professionals, the availability of behavioral therapy, and the integration of mental health screening tools into routine care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of their patients will receive higher scores, recognizing the holistic approach to patient care.

The "Hypertension Score" for 28420 will be a composite metric, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. The score will be based on a weighted average, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. The weighting will be determined based on the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal hypertension management. For example, the availability of primary care physicians and the physician-to-patient ratio may carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, reflecting their fundamental role in providing access to care.

The final "Hypertension Score" will provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in 28420, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This analysis will serve as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, providing insights to improve hypertension management and overall health outcomes. The score will also offer a benchmark against which future progress can be measured.

To visualize the intricate details of healthcare access and resource distribution within 28420 and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform to overlay the data analyzed in this report, including physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant information. This visual representation can uncover hidden patterns, identify areas of need, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ash, NC, and beyond.