28467, Calabash, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 28467 has some form of health insurance. 57.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.44 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 28467 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28467. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,957 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,139 health care providers accessible to residents in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Calabash, NC (ZIP Code 28467)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of hypertension management capabilities for primary care physicians within ZIP code 28467 (Calabash, NC), focusing on key indicators like physician availability, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to assess the overall capacity to effectively address hypertension within the community.

The foundation of any successful hypertension management program lies in the availability of primary care physicians. Calabash, like many rural communities, faces challenges in physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, the area likely experiences a ratio that falls below the national average. This means that each physician is responsible for a larger patient load, potentially impacting the time available for comprehensive hypertension care, including thorough assessments, patient education, and follow-up appointments. This scarcity necessitates a careful examination of resource allocation and innovative solutions.

A critical component of this analysis is identifying standout practices. These are medical facilities within 28467 that demonstrate exemplary hypertension management protocols. This includes consistently achieving target blood pressure control rates, actively employing evidence-based guidelines, and providing robust patient education. Identifying these practices allows for the dissemination of best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the community. This could involve clinics that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, implement standardized protocols for hypertension diagnosis and treatment, and actively engage patients in self-management strategies.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient education can significantly enhance hypertension management, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, improve patient convenience, and potentially reduce the burden on existing resources. This includes the use of remote patient monitoring devices that transmit blood pressure readings directly to the physician, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to medication regimens. Furthermore, telemedicine can facilitate easier communication between patients and their healthcare providers, leading to better adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a significant factor. This analysis considers the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, and the accessibility of these services. The integration of mental health support into primary care settings, such as through collaborative care models, can significantly improve patient outcomes. This also includes assessing the availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources that address the psychological aspects of managing chronic conditions.

Assessing the overall 'Hypertension Score' involves considering these factors in conjunction. Practices with higher physician-to-patient ratios will be scored lower, unless they compensate through innovative strategies like telemedicine or collaborative care models. Practices demonstrating high blood pressure control rates, strong patient education programs, and integration of mental health resources will receive higher scores. The final score will reflect the overall capacity of the community to effectively manage hypertension.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of the population within 28467. Factors like age, race, and socioeconomic status can significantly impact hypertension prevalence and management. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more resources dedicated to geriatric care and medication management. Similarly, addressing health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups is essential for ensuring equitable access to quality hypertension care. This includes understanding the specific needs of diverse patient populations and tailoring interventions accordingly.

Evaluating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial element. EHRs facilitate data collection, analysis, and reporting, which are essential for tracking patient progress, identifying trends, and improving the quality of care. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can better monitor blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and other key indicators. Furthermore, EHRs can streamline communication between healthcare providers, allowing for more coordinated and comprehensive care.

Finally, the analysis must evaluate the availability of patient education materials and resources. Patients who are well-informed about their condition and treatment plan are more likely to adhere to their medications and lifestyle recommendations. This includes providing patients with access to educational brochures, online resources, and support groups. Practices that prioritize patient education demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their own health.

This comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' analysis for Calabash (28467) provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the community's hypertension management capabilities. The insights gained from this analysis can inform strategic planning, resource allocation, and targeted interventions aimed at improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of hypertension within the community. By identifying areas for improvement and highlighting best practices, this analysis serves as a catalyst for positive change.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and the spatial relationships between these factors, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations. Consider using CartoChrome maps to gain a dynamic and insightful understanding of the healthcare landscape in Calabash and beyond.