28504, Kinston, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.10 percent of the residents in 28504 has some form of health insurance. 48.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.50 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 28504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,529 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 669 health care providers accessible to residents in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28504)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Kinston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28504) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, and the resources available to patients for managing this chronic condition. This analysis will culminate in a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in addressing hypertension within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Kinston, like many rural communities, faces challenges in physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and ultimately, poorer control of hypertension. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the Hypertension Score.

Beyond mere numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, to support primary care providers in managing complex cases? The geographic accessibility of these specialists significantly impacts the overall quality of care. This would be a factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

Several practices within the 28504 ZIP code may stand out for their commitment to hypertension management. These “standout practices” could be identified by their use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and proactive monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, identify at-risk individuals, and implement timely interventions would likely receive higher marks. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other allied health professionals within a practice also contributes to comprehensive care. These factors would be assessed and contribute positively to the Hypertension Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Kinston is a crucial consideration. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals can improve convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can help bridge the gap created by physician shortages and geographic barriers, ultimately improving hypertension control. High telemedicine adoption rates would positively influence the Hypertension Score.

Hypertension is often intertwined with other health conditions, including mental health. The availability of mental health resources within Kinston is therefore relevant to the overall management of hypertension. Patients with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges may find it more difficult to adhere to treatment plans. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing holistic care. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, or the availability of readily accessible referrals, can significantly improve patient outcomes. The presence of these resources would positively affect the Hypertension Score.

The quality of patient education is another crucial factor. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about hypertension, its management, and lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management) are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of educational materials in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of the community, is also important. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, empowering them to take control of their health, will likely see better results. The quality and availability of patient education would contribute to the Hypertension Score.

The use of data analytics is increasingly important in healthcare. Practices that analyze their patient data to identify trends, track outcomes, and improve their performance are more likely to provide high-quality care. This includes monitoring blood pressure control rates, medication adherence, and the use of preventative services. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and share best practices with other providers contribute to a more effective healthcare system. The use of data analytics would be a factor in determining the Hypertension Score.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Kinston (28504) would be a composite measure, reflecting all of the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the geographic distribution of providers, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the quality of patient education, and the use of data analytics. A higher score would indicate a more robust healthcare system, better equipped to manage hypertension effectively. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing patient education programs.

Based on the assessment of the factors mentioned, a hypothetical Hypertension Score for Kinston (28504) would be generated. This score would serve as a benchmark, allowing for comparison with other communities and providing a framework for identifying areas of strength and weakness. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, the locations of primary care practices, and the demographics of the patient population, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent the data discussed, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in Kinston and other communities.