28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 56.08 percent of the residents in 28543 has some form of health insurance. 8.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.72 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 28543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,968 health care providers accessible to residents in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Tarawa Terrace (28543)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, within the 28543 ZIP code, which encompasses Tarawa Terrace, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial factors in managing this prevalent condition. The ultimate goal is to generate a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease and effectiveness with which residents can access and receive high-quality hypertension care.

The initial assessment focuses on physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, the general availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in this area is a critical determinant. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, would negatively impact the Hypertension Score. This scarcity often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised preventative care, including hypertension screening and management. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting a more readily accessible physician base, would positively influence the score. Data from local healthcare systems and government sources are essential to accurately determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the 28543 ZIP code.

Next, we investigate the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools, such as automated blood pressure monitoring systems and electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient data management and communication? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and technological advancement would receive higher marks, contributing to a better Hypertension Score. Moreover, the presence of certified hypertension specialists within these practices would significantly enhance the score, reflecting a higher level of expertise in managing the condition.

Standout practices, those demonstrating exceptional performance in hypertension care, warrant specific attention. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, including lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking cessation) and medication adherence support. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and striving for continuous improvement. Identifying these "best-practice" examples is crucial, as they can serve as models for other providers in the area. Their success stories should be highlighted, potentially through patient testimonials or published outcomes data, to encourage widespread adoption of effective strategies.

The integration of telemedicine plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare, particularly in areas with limited access to in-person care. Telemedicine offers several benefits for hypertension management, including remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies would receive a higher score. This is particularly important in a location like Tarawa Terrace, which might have access challenges for some residents. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure, provide medication refills, and offer virtual consultations can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall health outcomes.

The relationship between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, would receive higher marks. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential to provide holistic care and address the complex interplay between physical and mental well-being. The presence of mental health support, whether integrated within the practice or readily accessible through referrals, is an essential component of comprehensive hypertension management.

Furthermore, the presence of educational programs for patients, such as classes on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management, would also positively influence the score. Empowering patients with knowledge and skills is crucial for self-management and improved health outcomes. These programs could be offered by the practices themselves, local hospitals, or community organizations. The availability of these resources would reflect a commitment to preventative care and patient empowerment.

The final Hypertension Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted contributions of all the factors discussed above. The weighting would be determined based on the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal hypertension management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and practice characteristics might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context of the 28543 ZIP code. The score would provide a valuable snapshot of the state of hypertension care in the area, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare landscape within the 28543 ZIP code. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the health and well-being of the community. The analysis would be dynamic, requiring regular updates to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies and treatment strategies. This dynamic approach ensures that the Hypertension Score remains a relevant and valuable tool for improving hypertension management in Tarawa Terrace.

To visualize the data and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tarawa Terrace and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of geographic information systems (GIS) with CartoChrome maps.