28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.16 percent of the residents in 28428 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.05 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 28428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 968 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28428. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,411 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,460 health care providers accessible to residents in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Carolina Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28428)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Carolina Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28428) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, focusing on their capacity to manage hypertension, including physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Ultimately, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals in this coastal community.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies within accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Carolina Beach, while difficult to ascertain with absolute precision due to data limitations, likely reflects a challenge common in coastal communities: seasonal fluctuations. The population swells during peak tourist seasons, placing additional strain on existing healthcare infrastructure. This dynamic necessitates a careful consideration of resource allocation and physician availability, not just in terms of raw numbers, but also in terms of appointment scheduling and wait times.

Standout practices within the area are crucial to identify. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive hypertension management. This includes implementing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, and offering patient education programs. Practices that emphasize preventative care, such as routine blood pressure screenings and lifestyle counseling, are particularly valuable. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, direct inquiries to local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption presents a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly in a community like Carolina Beach. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access to care for those with mobility limitations, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure levels. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine integration requires assessing whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and access to online patient portals. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible hypertension care.

The often-overlooked aspect of hypertension management is the integration of mental health resources. Chronic conditions like hypertension can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This could include providing on-site counselors, partnering with local mental health providers, or offering resources for stress management and coping mechanisms. Assessing the availability of these resources is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.

Analyzing the specific practices in Carolina Beach involves several key considerations. Are there any practices that are part of larger healthcare networks, potentially offering access to a wider range of specialists and resources? Do any practices specialize in geriatric care, given the prevalence of hypertension among older adults? Are there any practices that are known for their patient-centered approach, prioritizing communication, education, and shared decision-making? These questions are fundamental to a thorough assessment.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, is essential. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists is crucial for managing complex cases or when complications arise. The proximity of these specialists, along with their acceptance of various insurance plans, directly impacts the quality of care available to patients.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for Carolina Beach will depend on a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a community with a robust primary care infrastructure, readily accessible specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing telemedicine access, and fostering greater integration of mental health services.

The evaluation process involves gathering data from multiple sources. Public health records, insurance provider directories, and online physician databases provide information on physician availability, specialties, and practice locations. Patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into patient experiences and the quality of care. Direct inquiries to healthcare providers can clarify specific services offered, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration.

The data collected needs to be analyzed to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape. This requires quantifying physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the availability of telemedicine services, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources. The analysis should also identify standout practices and highlight areas where improvements are needed.

Ultimately, understanding the resources available for hypertension management is crucial for improving the health and well-being of the residents of Carolina Beach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the current state of care and identifying opportunities for improvement.

To gain a more granular understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare landscape in Carolina Beach, explore the power of visual data with CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can reveal valuable insights, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.