28421, Atkinson, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28421, Atkinson, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.34 percent of the residents in 28421 has some form of health insurance. 37.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.12 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 28421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 408 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 365 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 28421, Atkinson, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in 28421 & Primary Care in Atkinson

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the doctors practicing within ZIP code 28421 (likely representing a specific geographic area) and the availability of primary care services in Atkinson, North Carolina. We will assess several key factors to construct a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for the region, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis is based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends, and should not be considered definitive medical advice.

The foundation of any effective hypertension management program is accessible primary care. In Atkinson, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial element. We must consider the population size of Atkinson and the number of practicing primary care physicians within the town limits or in immediately adjacent areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, follow-up care, and proactive management strategies. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potentially greater ease of access, allowing for more comprehensive care, including regular screenings and lifestyle counseling. The specific ratio will significantly influence the overall score.

Within ZIP code 28421, we must investigate the composition of the medical community. Are there a significant number of general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family physicians? The presence of a diverse range of primary care providers is beneficial, offering patients choices and potentially reducing wait times. Furthermore, the age and experience of the physicians are relevant. Seasoned practitioners often possess a wealth of experience in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The presence of board-certified physicians in relevant specialties also adds weight to the quality of care available.

Standout practices within 28421 would be those demonstrating exceptional commitment to hypertension management. This could include practices that have adopted evidence-based guidelines, implemented patient education programs, and utilize innovative monitoring techniques. Are there practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? Do they have dedicated staff members focused on hypertension management, such as certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians? The presence of these resources would positively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor blood pressure readings, and provide medication management via telehealth platforms has become increasingly important. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine also facilitates more frequent check-ins, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved outcomes. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities would receive higher scores.

The interplay between physical and mental health is well-established, particularly in the context of hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within 28421 and Atkinson is a crucial component of the overall score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers? The ability to address both physical and mental health needs within a coordinated system is vital for comprehensive hypertension management.

Specific practice characteristics warrant further examination. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs)? EHRs facilitate seamless communication between providers, improve care coordination, and enable data-driven decision-making. Are there patient portals that allow patients to access their medical information, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments? These features enhance patient engagement and contribute to better outcomes.

The use of patient-centered care models is also important. Does the practice actively involve patients in their care decisions? Does it offer personalized treatment plans that consider individual patient needs and preferences? Practices that prioritize patient engagement and shared decision-making are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

Furthermore, the practice's commitment to preventative care is critical. Does it offer regular screenings for hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors? Does it provide education on lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation? Practices that emphasize preventative care are better equipped to detect and manage hypertension early, before it leads to serious complications.

The overall "Hypertension Score" would be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a foundational element, influencing the accessibility of care. The quality of care provided by individual practices, including their adoption of evidence-based guidelines, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources, would also be significant. The presence of patient-centered care models and a commitment to preventative care would further enhance the score.

The final score would provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape within 28421 and Atkinson, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. It would serve as a starting point for further investigation, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It would also be a valuable resource for healthcare providers, enabling them to identify opportunities for improvement and enhance the quality of care they provide.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to care within 28421 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you analyze geographic data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.