28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.36 percent of the residents in 28430 has some form of health insurance. 39.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.72 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 28430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 425 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 407 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,238 health care providers accessible to residents in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Cerro Gordo, NC (ZIP Code 28430)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28430, encompassing the rural community of Cerro Gordo, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly concerning hypertension management. A "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a composite assessment based on several factors impacting patient access to care and the potential for effective hypertension control. These factors include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. In rural areas like Cerro Gordo, this ratio is often a significant challenge. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is dynamic, public sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services can provide estimates. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally translates to easier access for patients seeking appointments and ongoing care. A high ratio, conversely, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment frequency, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment for conditions like hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" would be negatively impacted by a high physician-to-patient ratio, reflecting a potential barrier to care.

Identifying "standout practices" involves assessing the quality of care offered within the community. This necessitates investigating factors such as the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, the availability of patient education materials, and the implementation of systems for regular blood pressure monitoring. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, send reminders for medication refills and appointments, and offer patient portals for communication would likely receive a higher score. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice would also contribute positively, as these professionals can provide crucial support for lifestyle modifications, a key component of hypertension management.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in evaluating the healthcare landscape in Cerro Gordo. In a rural area, telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and primary care physicians even when in-person visits are difficult. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient education resources would receive a higher score. The ability to use telemedicine can significantly improve the "Hypertension Score" by increasing access to care and improving adherence to treatment plans. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

The integration of mental health resources is also a key component of the "Hypertension Score". Hypertension and mental health conditions often co-occur. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and can also make it more difficult for patients to adhere to treatment plans. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. This holistic approach to patient care is essential for effective hypertension management.

Specific examples of practices within 28430, while requiring up-to-the-minute data, could be assessed based on the criteria above. A practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, a robust EHR system, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health services would be considered a "standout" and contribute positively to the overall "Hypertension Score" for the area. Conversely, a practice with limited resources and a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score.

To determine the "Hypertension Score" for Cerro Gordo, a comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data from various sources. This includes reviewing public health data, surveying local practices, and potentially interviewing patients. The data would then be weighted based on the relative importance of each factor. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific needs of the community. The resulting score would provide a snapshot of the community's ability to manage hypertension effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" analysis would also need to consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers in the surrounding areas. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation or ride-sharing services, is also a factor, as it impacts patients' ability to access care. The presence of community health programs and initiatives focused on hypertension prevention and management would also be considered, as these programs can supplement the efforts of primary care providers.

Furthermore, the analysis would need to be updated regularly. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies emerging. Regular updates are essential to ensure that the "Hypertension Score" remains accurate and relevant. This includes monitoring changes in physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in Cerro Gordo, NC, requires a detailed analysis of several factors. The "Hypertension Score" is a tool to evaluate the accessibility and quality of primary care services, specifically concerning hypertension management. This score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment of these factors, coupled with regular updates, is crucial for understanding the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension and improve patient outcomes.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Cerro Gordo and surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Hypertension Score," we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides powerful data visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.