28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 28465 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 28465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina.

The following analysis examines the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 28465, focusing on primary care availability in Oak Island, North Carolina. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of developing hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Oak Island, a coastal community within 28465, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. While precise, real-time data on this ratio fluctuates, a general understanding of the area's healthcare infrastructure is essential. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. This impacts the ability to monitor blood pressure regularly, adjust medications promptly, and provide comprehensive lifestyle counseling, all vital components of hypertension control.

Several primary care practices serve the Oak Island area. Evaluating these practices requires a deeper dive into their operational models and the services they provide. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to preventative care, including robust hypertension screening programs. Others might excel in patient education, offering classes or individual counseling sessions on diet, exercise, and stress management. A practice’s ability to integrate these elements effectively will significantly influence its "Hypertension Score."

Telemedicine is increasingly becoming a vital component of healthcare delivery, particularly in geographically isolated areas like Oak Island. The adoption of telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication management, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on factors like patient access to technology, internet connectivity, and the physician's comfort level with virtual consultations.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, and this is especially true for hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical factor in the "Hypertension Score" assessment. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals, either through on-site services or referrals, can provide more holistic care. This collaborative approach can help patients address underlying emotional issues that may contribute to their hypertension.

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare ecosystem in 28465 plays a crucial role. This includes the presence of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, who can provide more specialized care for patients with complex hypertension cases. The availability of diagnostic services, such as blood pressure monitoring equipment and laboratory testing, is also essential. Furthermore, the existence of community health programs, such as those offered by the local health department or community organizations, can supplement the care provided by primary care practices.

The "Hypertension Score" for 28465 is a composite assessment, taking into account the factors mentioned above. It is not a single number, but rather a nuanced evaluation that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong emphasis on preventative care, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest limited access to care, potentially long wait times, a lack of preventative programs, minimal telemedicine integration, and limited mental health support.

Assessing the quality of care requires careful consideration of patient outcomes. This includes monitoring blood pressure control rates, the percentage of patients adhering to their medication regimens, and the incidence of hypertension-related complications, such as heart attacks and strokes. Data on these outcomes is often collected and analyzed by healthcare providers and public health agencies, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of local hypertension management efforts.

The specific practices in Oak Island vary in their approaches. Some may prioritize patient education, offering comprehensive programs on lifestyle modifications. Others might focus on medication management, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate medications and are closely monitored for side effects. The most effective practices often adopt a multifaceted approach, integrating all aspects of hypertension management to provide comprehensive and personalized care.

The challenges in Oak Island are similar to those faced by many rural and coastal communities. These include the potential for limited access to specialized care, the need for improved transportation options, and the importance of addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty and food insecurity, which can significantly impact hypertension management. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

The future of hypertension management in Oak Island will likely involve further integration of technology, including the use of remote patient monitoring devices, mobile health apps, and telehealth platforms. These technologies can empower patients to take a more active role in their care, improve communication with their physicians, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of their blood pressure.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in 28465 is critical for residents. Access to quality primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all vital components of effective hypertension management. A comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their care and advocate for improvements in the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28465, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in the area.