28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.04 percent of the residents in 28531 has some form of health insurance. 40.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 28531 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28531. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina.

The analysis of hypertension management within ZIP code 28531, encompassing Harkers Island and surrounding areas, necessitates a nuanced understanding of primary care access, physician capabilities, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" would evaluate several key factors, providing a snapshot of the community's readiness to combat this prevalent health concern.

The foundation of any successful hypertension management program lies in readily available primary care. Harkers Island, a relatively small community, faces challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Analyzing the actual ratio in 28531, and comparing it to state and national averages, provides a crucial baseline. This data should be sourced from credible databases, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards.

Furthermore, simply having primary care physicians isn't enough. The quality of care, measured through patient satisfaction surveys, adherence to established clinical guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology), and the utilization of evidence-based practices, significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, lifestyle modification counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation), and medication management protocols would receive higher marks.

Identifying standout practices within 28531 is crucial. This involves assessing their infrastructure, staffing, and patient outcomes related to hypertension control. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access. The presence of certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, or other allied health professionals within a practice further enhances its ability to provide comprehensive care. Moreover, a practice's ability to demonstrate a high percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control targets, as defined by current guidelines, is a key indicator of success. This requires access to patient data, which can be obtained through practice reporting or public health data.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, demonstrating its effective use in hypertension management, would score favorably. This includes assessing the types of telehealth platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring devices), the frequency of telehealth visits, and patient satisfaction with the virtual care experience.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health necessitates consideration of mental health resources. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to local mental health providers, is a vital component of comprehensive hypertension management. Assessing the presence of integrated behavioral health services, the ease of access to mental health referrals, and the availability of mental health support groups within the community contributes to the Hypertension Score.

The availability of community resources, such as free or low-cost blood pressure screenings, educational programs, and support groups, also impacts the overall score. Partnerships between primary care practices and community organizations, such as the local YMCA or senior centers, can enhance access to these valuable resources. This includes an assessment of the number of community health events, the types of educational materials available, and the participation rates in these programs.

Data collection and analysis are paramount. The Hypertension Score should be based on a systematic review of available data, including physician directories, patient surveys, public health records, and practice-specific information. This data should be analyzed using a standardized methodology, allowing for a fair and objective assessment of each factor. The score should be transparent and easily understood, providing actionable insights for patients, physicians, and healthcare administrators.

To summarize, the Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP code 28531 and primary care availability in Harkers Island would be a complex metric. It would take into account physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support programs. The resulting score would provide a valuable tool for assessing the community's readiness to address hypertension, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the Hypertension Score, allowing users to easily identify areas with high and low scores, visualize physician locations, and explore the availability of resources. CartoChrome maps can be used to analyze the data, identify trends, and create actionable insights. To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28531 and beyond, and to explore the data-driven insights discussed, visit CartoChrome maps today.