28526, Dover, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28526, Dover, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.21 percent of the residents in 28526 has some form of health insurance. 56.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.89 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 28526 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28526. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 570 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,170 health care providers accessible to residents in 28526, Dover, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Dover, NC (ZIP Code 28526)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Dover, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28526) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician availability, the presence and utilization of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. A definitive "Hypertension Score" is challenging to assign without access to real-time patient data and individual physician performance metrics. However, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and potential areas for improvement, ultimately aiming to inform patients and healthcare providers.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Dover, like many rural communities, faces the challenge of limited primary care access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios are difficult to ascertain without direct access to provider databases, publicly available data suggests that the area likely experiences a shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially poorer management of chronic conditions like hypertension.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is a crucial factor. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other sections underserved? Proximity to care is essential, particularly for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can mitigate some of these challenges, providing affordable care to underserved populations. Investigating the specific locations and patient capacities of these facilities is essential.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into quality metrics. This includes assessing the practices' adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management, such as those established by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Key indicators to examine include:

* **Blood Pressure Control Rates:** What percentage of patients with hypertension achieve and maintain their target blood pressure levels?
* **Medication Adherence:** How effectively do practices support patients in taking their prescribed medications, including patient education and medication management programs?
* **Regular Monitoring and Follow-up:** Do practices schedule regular follow-up appointments and blood pressure checks?
* **Patient Education:** Do practices provide comprehensive patient education on lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and stress management?
* **Use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs):** Are EHRs used effectively to track patient data, manage medications, and facilitate communication among healthcare providers?

Practices that excel in these areas are likely to demonstrate superior patient outcomes. Online reviews and patient testimonials can also provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine for hypertension management can significantly enhance patient outcomes. This includes:

* **Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Allowing patients to monitor their blood pressure at home and transmit the data to their physician.
* **Virtual Consultations:** Providing patients with convenient access to their physicians for medication adjustments, lifestyle counseling, and follow-up appointments.
* **Specialist Consultations:** Facilitating access to specialists, such as cardiologists, who can provide expert guidance on complex cases.

The extent to which practices in Dover have embraced telemedicine is a critical factor. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are better positioned to provide timely and convenient care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms used, the frequency of their use, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective management. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is therefore crucial. This includes:

* **Screening for Mental Health Conditions:** Regularly screening patients for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
* **On-site Mental Health Professionals:** Providing access to therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists within the practice.
* **Referral Networks:** Establishing strong referral networks with mental health providers in the community.
* **Collaboration:** Fostering collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals to provide coordinated care.

The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices in Dover is a significant indicator of the comprehensiveness of care. Practices that prioritize mental health integration are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients and improve their overall well-being.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Dover, NC (ZIP Code 28526) is contingent on the interplay of these factors. While a definitive score requires detailed data, this analysis underscores the importance of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration. The presence of standout practices, those demonstrating high blood pressure control rates and a commitment to patient education, is also crucial.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dover, including the locations of practices, physician specialties, and available resources, consider exploring interactive maps. **CartoChrome maps** can offer a visual representation of healthcare providers, allowing for a more informed assessment of accessibility and resource distribution.