28461, Southport, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28461, Southport, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.85 percent of the residents in 28461 has some form of health insurance. 49.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 28461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,740 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,725 health care providers accessible to residents in 28461, Southport, North Carolina.

The analysis that follows examines the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 28461, focusing on primary care physicians in Southport, North Carolina, and evaluating their practices based on factors critical to effective hypertension control. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the available resources and their impact on patient care. It will consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all of which are vital components of a comprehensive approach to managing hypertension.

The physician-to-patient ratio within Southport, 28461, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less time for individual patient consultations. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. The specific ratio fluctuates, influenced by factors like population growth, physician recruitment, and retirement. However, public health data, available through county and state health departments, provides insights into the average patient load per primary care physician. Understanding this ratio is essential for gauging the overall capacity of the healthcare system to manage the needs of individuals with hypertension.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Several primary care practices in Southport have established themselves as leaders in hypertension management. These standout practices often distinguish themselves through their commitment to evidence-based medicine, proactive patient education, and the utilization of innovative technologies. They may implement standardized protocols for hypertension screening, diagnosis, and treatment, ensuring consistency and adherence to national guidelines. These practices might also actively engage patients in their care, empowering them to take ownership of their health through lifestyle modifications and medication adherence.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in hypertension management, particularly in rural areas like Southport. Its adoption by local practices can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine enables remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, all of which contribute to better patient outcomes. The extent of telemedicine integration varies among practices. Some may offer comprehensive telehealth programs, while others might use it more selectively. The availability and utilization of telemedicine services are important factors in assessing the overall effectiveness of hypertension care within the community.

Hypertension is frequently linked to mental health challenges, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. These conditions can exacerbate hypertension and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integration can include screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling, and coordinating care with mental health professionals. The presence and accessibility of these resources are essential for optimizing patient outcomes.

Specific practices within Southport demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. One practice, for example, may have implemented a robust patient education program, providing educational materials and support groups to empower patients to manage their condition effectively. Another practice might have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote blood pressure monitoring to improve accessibility and convenience. These practices often leverage electronic health records to track patient progress, identify potential risks, and personalize treatment plans.

Another key indicator of quality care is the use of medication management programs. These programs help patients understand their medications, manage side effects, and ensure adherence to their prescribed regimens. Practices that actively participate in medication reconciliation and provide ongoing support for medication management often see better patient outcomes. This includes regular reviews of medication lists, identifying potential drug interactions, and educating patients about the importance of taking their medications as prescribed.

Furthermore, the integration of technology plays a crucial role. Practices that utilize digital health tools, such as patient portals and mobile apps, enable patients to access their health information, communicate with their providers, and track their progress. These tools can improve patient engagement and empower them to actively participate in their care. The use of remote monitoring devices, such as blood pressure cuffs that transmit data directly to the physician's office, can also facilitate more proactive and personalized care.

The success of hypertension management also depends on the collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists. Patients with complex cases or uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to cardiologists, nephrologists, or other specialists. Practices that have established strong referral networks ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care from specialists when needed. This collaboration helps to optimize patient outcomes and prevent complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

In conclusion, the quality of hypertension care in Southport, 28461, is a multifaceted issue. It is influenced by factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative technologies, the availability of mental health resources, and the commitment of individual practices to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care. While specific data on each practice and resource availability would require a more detailed investigation, the factors discussed above provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in managing hypertension.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of these resources, and to visualize the data discussed above in a compelling and interactive format, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize data, identify trends, and gain insights into the healthcare landscape of Southport and beyond.