28433, Clarkton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28433, Clarkton, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.58 percent of the residents in 28433 has some form of health insurance. 58.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.38 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 28433 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,383 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28433. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 994 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 28433, Clarkton, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Clarkton, NC (ZIP Code 28433)

Clarkton, North Carolina, a small town nestled in Bladen County, presents a unique challenge when considering hypertension management. Assessing the quality of care available for individuals managing this chronic condition requires a nuanced approach, evaluating not just the presence of physicians but also the accessibility, resources, and innovative practices employed. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" ranking for physicians within ZIP code 28433, while simultaneously examining the overall primary care landscape in Clarkton.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to a primary care physician (PCP). The physician-to-patient ratio in Clarkton is a critical factor. Data suggests that rural areas often face shortages, and this could impact the ability of residents to secure timely appointments and consistent follow-up care. While specific, publicly available physician-to-patient ratios for Clarkton alone are difficult to pinpoint precisely, county-level data and regional trends provide context. Bladen County, like many rural counties, likely struggles with a lower physician-to-population ratio compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is crucial. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools (such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring), and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, offering resources like dietary counseling and exercise programs, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice can significantly enhance the ability to manage hypertension, given the frequent comorbidity with diabetes.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity for improving access to care in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication management via telehealth can overcome geographical barriers and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices actively embracing telemedicine, particularly those offering remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments, receive higher scores. The availability of digital patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their care team, also contributes positively to the overall score.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within a primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is therefore essential. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for holistic patient care.

The "Hypertension Score" for individual physicians within 28433 would be a composite of these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio in the broader geographic area, the specific services offered by each practice (e.g., on-site diagnostics, patient education programs), the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care, utilizing technology to improve access, and integrating mental health support would receive higher scores.

Consider the hypothetical example of Dr. Smith's practice. If Dr. Smith's practice employs a nurse practitioner specializing in hypertension management, offers remote blood pressure monitoring, and has a strong referral network for mental health services, the practice would likely receive a higher score compared to a practice with fewer resources. Conversely, a practice with limited resources, longer wait times, and a lack of telehealth options would likely receive a lower score.

The overall primary care landscape in Clarkton is likely to be influenced by the limited availability of specialists. This means that primary care physicians often shoulder the burden of managing complex conditions like hypertension. This underscores the importance of robust support systems, including access to continuing medical education, specialist consultation services, and readily available diagnostic tools.

The "Hypertension Score" is not simply a ranking; it is a reflection of the broader healthcare ecosystem. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the available resources and underscores the need for continuous improvement. Factors such as insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and patient literacy levels also play a role in hypertension management, further complicating the assessment. However, by focusing on physician practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, the "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating the quality of care available to individuals in Clarkton.

This analysis also reveals the need for community-level interventions. Public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing awareness of hypertension, and providing access to affordable medications are crucial. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is essential for creating a supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension.

In conclusion, the effective management of hypertension in Clarkton requires a multifaceted approach. It involves ensuring adequate physician-to-patient ratios, supporting innovative practices, embracing telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources. Evaluating these factors through a "Hypertension Score" provides a useful tool for assessing the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement.

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