28557, Morehead City, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28557, Morehead City, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.46 percent of the residents in 28557 has some form of health insurance. 40.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.22 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 28557 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,737 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28557. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,691 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,882 health care providers accessible to residents in 28557, Morehead City, North Carolina.

The coastal community of Morehead City, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP Code 28557, presents a unique landscape for evaluating hypertension management and primary care accessibility. This analysis delves into the factors influencing a "Hypertension Score" for local physicians, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of the community's needs.

Assessing the physician landscape begins with understanding the population served. Morehead City, a popular tourist destination and retirement haven, experiences fluctuating demographics. This influx of seasonal residents and retirees impacts the demand for healthcare services, particularly primary care, which often serves as the first line of defense against chronic conditions like hypertension. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, which is essential for managing hypertension. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board, can provide insights into the number of licensed physicians practicing within the ZIP code. However, this data alone doesn't paint the complete picture. Factors such as physician specialization (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), practice size, and patient panel size must be considered to accurately gauge the accessibility of primary care.

Standout practices in Morehead City, those that consistently demonstrate excellence in hypertension management, often exhibit several key characteristics. These practices typically prioritize preventative care, offering regular screenings and patient education programs. They may employ registered nurses or certified medical assistants who are specifically trained in hypertension management, providing dedicated support to patients. Furthermore, these practices frequently utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, monitor blood pressure readings, and ensure timely follow-up appointments. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is another hallmark of high-performing practices. These guidelines provide a framework for physicians to make informed decisions about medication, lifestyle modifications, and patient monitoring.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in rural and underserved areas. For patients in Morehead City, telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows physicians to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure readings remotely, and provide medication management support. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly enhance the "Hypertension Score" by increasing patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including patient access to technology, internet connectivity, and the physician's ability to provide a comfortable and secure virtual experience.

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure, making it crucial to address mental health concerns alongside physical health. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their care models are likely to achieve better outcomes for patients with hypertension. This integration can take various forms, such as on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of screening tools to identify patients who may benefit from mental health support. The availability of these resources can significantly influence the "Hypertension Score" by providing a holistic approach to patient care.

The "Hypertension Score" for physicians in ZIP Code 28557 is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem. It is influenced by the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for hypertension management, with greater access to care, better patient outcomes, and a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

The analysis of primary care availability in Morehead City must also consider the broader context of the healthcare system. The presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics can impact the accessibility of primary care. These facilities can provide backup support, offer after-hours care, and facilitate referrals to specialists when necessary. The availability of these resources can influence the "Hypertension Score" by ensuring that patients have access to a full spectrum of healthcare services.

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" requires ongoing monitoring and assessment. Regular data collection, analysis, and feedback are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of the community. This can involve patient surveys, clinical audits, and the tracking of key performance indicators, such as blood pressure control rates and patient satisfaction scores. By continuously monitoring and improving the healthcare system, Morehead City can strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients with hypertension.

To truly understand the geographical nuances of hypertension management and primary care access in Morehead City and beyond, consider leveraging the power of visual data. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities that may not be apparent through traditional analysis. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about improving hypertension management in your community.