28455, Nakina, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.58 percent of the residents in 28455 has some form of health insurance. 40.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.64 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 28455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 745 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28455. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,707 health care providers accessible to residents in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Nakina, NC (ZIP Code 28455)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within the Nakina, NC (ZIP Code 28455) area necessitates a multi-faceted approach, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, their practices regarding hypertension management, and the integration of supportive services. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering various factors to paint a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape for residents.

The foundation of any hypertension management program rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise numbers fluctuate, a high ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. In Nakina, the rural nature of the area presents a potential challenge. Data on physician density, sourced from state medical boards and professional organizations, needs to be analyzed. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with geographic isolation, could significantly impact the "Hypertension Score."

Further complicating the picture is the distribution of these physicians. Are they clustered in specific locations, leaving certain areas underserved? Transportation limitations for elderly or low-income residents could exacerbate this issue, making access to care even more difficult. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community-based clinics would be a positive factor, potentially mitigating some of the access challenges. The "Hypertension Score" must account for the geographic accessibility of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by these physicians is paramount. This involves evaluating their adherence to established guidelines for hypertension management, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Key metrics include the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of evidence-based medications, and the provision of lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation). This data can be gathered through patient surveys, review of medical records (with appropriate privacy protections), and potentially, through publicly available quality reports from healthcare organizations.

Identifying standout practices within the area can significantly boost the "Hypertension Score." Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive monitoring, and effective medication management deserve recognition. This could involve practices that have implemented electronic health record (EHR) systems to track patient progress and send automated reminders for appointments and medication refills. Practices with dedicated nurses or other healthcare professionals specializing in hypertension management would also be considered highly effective.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide ongoing support through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially for those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore an important factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referral networks, would be a significant advantage. The "Hypertension Score" should reflect the availability and accessibility of these vital mental health resources.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" must consider the availability of ancillary services that support hypertension management. This includes access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and cardiac rehabilitation programs. The presence of local pharmacies that offer medication adherence programs and blood pressure monitoring services would also be beneficial. The availability of these resources contributes to a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

The socioeconomic characteristics of the population in Nakina also need to be considered. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and educational attainment can all influence access to care and health outcomes. Areas with a high proportion of uninsured or underinsured individuals may face greater challenges in managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" should reflect the socioeconomic realities of the community.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 28455 and primary care availability in Nakina is a complex assessment. It requires a comprehensive understanding of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors. The score should reflect a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities in providing effective hypertension management within this rural community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Nakina, NC (ZIP Code 28455), including the distribution of physicians, access to resources, and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and quality.