28423, Bolton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28423, Bolton, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.58 percent of the residents in 28423 has some form of health insurance. 50.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.71 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 28423 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28423. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 597 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,216 health care providers accessible to residents in 28423, Bolton, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28423 & Bolton Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 28423, encompassing the town of Bolton, requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing hypertension management. This analysis will delve into factors influencing a "Hypertension Score" for local physicians, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, specifically concerning primary care and hypertension management, and to highlight areas for improvement.

The foundation of any hypertension score rests upon the availability of primary care physicians. Bolton, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings. This ratio is a critical determinant. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less effective hypertension management. Conversely, a lower ratio, while ideal, doesn't guarantee quality. It's the interplay of availability and quality of care that truly defines a strong hypertension score.

Standout practices in 28423 would be those demonstrating proactive hypertension management strategies. This includes consistent blood pressure monitoring, both in-office and potentially through home monitoring programs, along with aggressive lifestyle counseling. Practices scoring highly would also have a robust patient education program, covering diet, exercise, and medication adherence. Furthermore, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is crucial. Practices adhering to these guidelines and demonstrating positive patient outcomes, such as controlled blood pressure readings, would naturally receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. In a rural area like Bolton, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and follow-up care for patients with hypertension. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring would significantly improve their hypertension score. This is especially important for patients who struggle with transportation or have mobility issues. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings and adjust medication dosages through telemedicine can lead to improved patient outcomes and a higher quality of life.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in hypertension management, yet it's critically important. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, would receive a higher score. This could include access to therapists, counselors, or even stress-reduction programs. A holistic approach to care, addressing both the physical and mental well-being of the patient, is essential for effective hypertension control.

The specific practices within 28423 would be evaluated based on these criteria. The "Hypertension Score" would be a composite, weighing each factor. For example, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, robust telemedicine adoption, strong patient education, and integrated mental health resources would receive a significantly higher score than a practice lacking these elements. The score would be a comparative measure, allowing patients to assess the quality of care offered by different physicians in the area.

The quality of primary care availability in Bolton, and therefore the overall hypertension score, is also influenced by the availability of support staff. The presence of registered nurses, certified medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of hypertension management. Practices with a well-staffed team, capable of assisting with patient education, medication management, and follow-up care, would likely demonstrate better patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a crucial role. EHRs allow for efficient data management, tracking of patient progress, and the implementation of clinical decision support tools. Practices utilizing EHRs effectively, particularly those that integrate them with patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling, would likely demonstrate improved hypertension control.

The availability of specialist referrals is another critical element. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension may require consultation with a cardiologist or nephrologist. Practices with established referral networks and efficient communication with specialists would contribute to a higher hypertension score. Timely access to specialist care is crucial for patients with complex cases or those who are not responding to initial treatment.

The final "Hypertension Score" would be a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving healthcare practices and patient outcomes. Regular audits and evaluations would be necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score. This ongoing assessment would provide valuable information for both patients and healthcare providers, driving continuous improvement in hypertension management within the community.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for physicians in ZIP Code 28423 and the assessment of primary care availability in Bolton is a complex undertaking. It necessitates a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. By understanding these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare, and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28423, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the healthcare resources available in your community.