28438, Evergreen, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.27 percent of the residents in 28438 has some form of health insurance. 66.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.00 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 28438 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 174 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28438. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 474 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28438 and Primary Care in Evergreen

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 28438, encompassing the Evergreen area, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the prevalence of hypertension within the community, and the resources available to manage and treat this prevalent condition. This analysis will assess the current state of affairs, pinpoint areas of strength, and identify potential weaknesses in the system.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While exact figures fluctuate, a general assessment indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians in the Evergreen area. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. The impact is felt most acutely by vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions.

Further complicating the situation is the geographic distribution of primary care practices. Are practices concentrated in specific areas within the ZIP code, creating "healthcare deserts" for residents in more remote locations? An investigation into the accessibility of public transportation to these practices is vital. Individuals lacking reliable transportation may face significant barriers to accessing necessary medical care, exacerbating health disparities.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care practices needs scrutiny. Does the practice adhere to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management? Are physicians proactive in screening patients for hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors? Do practices offer comprehensive patient education materials, including information on lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise?

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those living in rural areas or facing mobility challenges. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially alleviate some of the strain on in-person appointments.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is also paramount. Hypertension is often linked to stress and anxiety, and addressing these underlying issues can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 28438 is essential. These practices serve as models for best practices in hypertension management. They might excel in areas such as patient education, medication adherence programs, or the use of technology to enhance patient care. Researching these practices and understanding their strategies can inform efforts to improve the overall quality of care within the community.

The prevalence of hypertension within the Evergreen community must also be considered. Analyzing local health data, including rates of hypertension diagnosis and control, can reveal the extent of the problem. This data can then be used to tailor interventions and allocate resources effectively. Community health initiatives, such as health fairs and educational campaigns, can play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Medication adherence is a significant challenge in hypertension management. Patients may struggle to take their medications as prescribed due to side effects, cost, or forgetfulness. Practices that offer medication management programs, including medication reconciliation and refill reminders, can improve patient adherence and ultimately improve blood pressure control.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology services, is also important. While primary care physicians are the frontline providers for hypertension management, patients with complex cases or uncontrolled blood pressure may require referral to a cardiologist. The ease of access to these specialized services is a critical component of the overall healthcare system.

Addressing social determinants of health is also critical. Factors such as poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to safe housing can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension. Healthcare providers must be aware of these factors and work to connect patients with resources that can address these challenges.

The role of community pharmacies should not be overlooked. Pharmacists can play a vital role in medication management, providing patient education, and monitoring for potential drug interactions. Establishing strong partnerships between primary care practices and local pharmacies can improve patient outcomes.

Finally, the cost of healthcare is a major concern for many patients. The cost of medications, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests can be a significant barrier to accessing care. Practices that offer affordable care options or participate in programs that help patients access financial assistance are better positioned to serve the community.

In conclusion, improving hypertension management within ZIP code 28438 requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the availability of primary care, the quality of care provided, the integration of mental health resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the social determinants of health. By focusing on these key areas, the community can work to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Evergreen and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare services, allowing you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.