28439, Fair Bluff, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28439, Fair Bluff, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.18 percent of the residents in 28439 has some form of health insurance. 37.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.36 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 28439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 175 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28439. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,224 health care providers accessible to residents in 28439, Fair Bluff, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28439 and Primary Care in Fair Bluff

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning hypertension management, in ZIP Code 28439 (which encompasses Fair Bluff, NC) presents a complex picture. A ‘Hypertension Score’ is not a standardized metric, so this analysis will synthesize various factors to offer a comprehensive assessment. The goal is to evaluate the resources available to patients in Fair Bluff for managing hypertension, a critical health concern in rural communities.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element. Fair Bluff, being a small, rural community, likely experiences a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient load per physician. This can directly impact the quality of care, as doctors may have less time to dedicate to each patient, including thorough hypertension assessments and management.

The presence of a primary care practice is crucial. Fair Bluff’s access to a dedicated primary care facility, ideally offering comprehensive services, is paramount. This includes the ability to conduct regular blood pressure screenings, provide lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and prescribe and monitor medication. The availability of ancillary services, such as on-site laboratory testing for blood work and urine analysis, streamlines the diagnostic process and improves patient convenience.

Identifying standout practices is essential. A hypothetical practice, "Fair Bluff Family Health," might be considered a high-performing entity. Such a practice would likely demonstrate a commitment to proactive hypertension management. This could manifest through: implementing a robust patient recall system for follow-up appointments, offering patient education materials on hypertension, and actively monitoring patient adherence to prescribed medications. The practice's commitment to preventative care, including regular check-ups and screenings, is also a key indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Telemedicine offers a vital bridge, connecting patients with healthcare providers remotely. For hypertension management, this translates to virtual consultations for medication adjustments, remote blood pressure monitoring using connected devices, and virtual educational sessions. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care for patients in Fair Bluff, especially those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often intertwined with hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate high blood pressure, making access to mental health services crucial. The availability of on-site or referral-based mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, is a strong positive indicator. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of hypertension.

Another critical element involves the availability of specialized services. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialists is also important. The proximity to a cardiologist or endocrinologist, for example, can facilitate more complex hypertension cases. The ability to refer patients to specialists without excessive travel distances enhances the overall quality of care.

Evaluating the insurance landscape is also essential. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a key factor in ensuring access to care for a diverse patient population. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more likely to serve a broader segment of the community.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. EHRs streamline patient data management, enabling doctors to easily access patient history, track blood pressure readings, and monitor medication adherence. EHRs also facilitate communication between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination.

Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Positive patient feedback, regarding factors like wait times, staff friendliness, and the doctor's communication skills, is a strong indicator of quality care. Analyzing patient reviews and testimonials can help identify practices that excel in patient-centered care.

The availability of after-hours care is also a key factor. Hypertension can be a medical emergency. Practices that offer after-hours availability, whether through on-call services or urgent care facilities, ensure that patients have access to care when they need it most.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for Fair Bluff, NC (ZIP Code 28439) would likely be moderate, given the inherent challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio may be lower, potentially leading to increased patient load. The presence of a dedicated primary care practice is critical, and the adoption of telemedicine is essential to improve access to care. The availability of mental health resources, specialized services, and after-hours care would be important factors in determining the score.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fair Bluff, NC, and visualize the locations of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access to care.