28424, Brunswick, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28424, Brunswick, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28424 has some form of health insurance. 58.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.73 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 28424 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28424. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,268 health care providers accessible to residents in 28424, Brunswick, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28424 and Primary Care Availability in Brunswick

Analyzing the availability and quality of hypertension management within ZIP Code 28424, which encompasses portions of Brunswick County, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective hypertension care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the current landscape and identify areas for potential improvement, ultimately benefiting the residents of Brunswick County.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs), can significantly hinder access to care. In a region with a high proportion of elderly residents, as is often the case in coastal communities, the demand for PCPs is particularly acute. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the diagnosis and management of hypertension. Furthermore, a limited number of PCPs may strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, impacting the ability of providers to offer comprehensive care, including regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling, all essential elements of hypertension control.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 28424 are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in hypertension management. This includes practices that actively screen patients for hypertension, utilize evidence-based treatment guidelines, and employ innovative approaches to patient education and support. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient satisfaction surveys, physician certifications, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives. Practices that have achieved recognition from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or have actively participated in clinical trials focused on hypertension management are strong candidates for consideration. The presence of certified hypertension specialists within a practice is another significant indicator of expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in providing accessible healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and participate in virtual education programs. In the context of hypertension management, telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, medication adherence tracking, and virtual lifestyle counseling. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and offer virtual appointments, particularly for follow-up visits, are likely to improve patient outcomes and enhance access to care. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure cuffs, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine programs.

Mental health resources play a critical role in hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Practices that recognize the interplay between mental and physical health and offer integrated mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes access to on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and the implementation of stress-reduction programs. The ability to address the psychological factors that contribute to hypertension is essential for achieving long-term blood pressure control and improving overall patient well-being.

Evaluating the availability of primary care in Brunswick County requires a broader perspective. Beyond the specific ZIP Code 28424, the overall distribution of PCPs across the county is crucial. Areas with limited access to primary care may experience disparities in hypertension management. This analysis must consider the geographic distribution of practices, the availability of transportation options, and the socioeconomic factors that may influence access to care. Furthermore, the presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers is essential for ensuring that all residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare.

The quality of care provided by individual practices is another key factor. This requires an assessment of the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their utilization of electronic health records (EHRs), and their implementation of quality improvement initiatives. Practices that actively track patient outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates, and use data to identify areas for improvement are more likely to provide effective hypertension management. The adoption of EHRs facilitates the sharing of patient information, improves communication between providers, and supports the implementation of clinical decision support tools.

The integration of patient education and support programs is also critical. Practices that offer educational materials, group classes, and individual counseling sessions are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension. This includes education on healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, medication adherence, and stress management techniques. The use of patient portals and mobile applications can further enhance patient engagement and facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

In conclusion, the hypertension score analysis for ZIP Code 28424 and primary care availability in Brunswick County reveals a complex landscape. While specific data points on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are essential for a complete evaluation, the overall assessment suggests that improvements are possible. Addressing potential shortages of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, integrating mental health services, and promoting patient education are all critical steps towards improving hypertension management and the overall health of the community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify the locations of primary care practices, and analyze the demographic characteristics of the population, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and help identify areas with the greatest need for improvement.