28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 28469 has some form of health insurance. 53.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.13 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 28469 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28469. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,268 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,228 health care providers accessible to residents in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ocean Isle Beach (28469)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within the 28469 ZIP code, encompassing Ocean Isle Beach, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care, specifically focusing on factors impacting hypertension control. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all vital components in a comprehensive hypertension care model. This evaluation will ultimately contribute to a ‘Hypertension Score’ reflecting the overall efficacy of the local healthcare ecosystem in managing this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to appointment delays, reduced patient follow-up, and ultimately, poorer hypertension control. While precise figures fluctuate, the 28469 area, like many coastal communities, may experience seasonal variations in population density. This dynamic necessitates a careful consideration of both resident and transient populations when calculating physician availability. Furthermore, the specialization of physicians is crucial. While primary care physicians (PCPs) are the front line in hypertension management, access to cardiologists and nephrologists, specialists in heart and kidney health respectively, is critical for complex cases and effective disease management.

Identifying standout practices within Ocean Isle Beach is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management, serving as models for other providers. Key indicators include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. Practices actively monitoring blood pressure, offering patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and utilizing medication management protocols tend to achieve superior outcomes. These practices often incorporate regular patient check-ins, both in-person and remotely, to ensure adherence to treatment plans. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and publicly report their performance metrics demonstrate a commitment to excellence.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital in modern healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. It facilitates remote blood pressure monitoring, medication management adjustments, and virtual consultations. The degree to which practices in 28469 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring devices, and secure patient portals, directly impacts the Hypertension Score. Practices lagging in telemedicine adoption may struggle to provide timely and convenient care, potentially hindering effective hypertension control.

The crucial link between mental health and hypertension cannot be ignored. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly elevate blood pressure and complicate treatment. The availability of mental health resources within the community directly impacts the overall effectiveness of hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services, either internally or through partnerships with local mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach promotes improved patient outcomes and contributes positively to the Hypertension Score. The presence of readily accessible mental health professionals, support groups, and educational resources within the community is crucial for comprehensive hypertension care.

The overall Hypertension Score for 28469 is derived from a composite assessment of these factors. A high score would reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-performing primary care practices, robust telemedicine integration, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to poorer hypertension control within the community. The score is not a static number; it should be regularly reassessed as healthcare practices and community resources evolve.

The ongoing assessment of the healthcare landscape in Ocean Isle Beach, including the evaluation of hypertension management practices, is critical for improving patient outcomes. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem allows for targeted interventions and improvements. This includes identifying areas where resources are lacking and advocating for increased access to care, improved quality of services, and the implementation of best practices.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports effective hypertension management for all residents of 28469. This requires a collaborative effort involving physicians, healthcare organizations, community leaders, and patients themselves. By focusing on the factors discussed above, the community can strive to improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and population demographics within the 28469 area, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools to visualize and analyze healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.