28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.10 percent of the residents in 28573 has some form of health insurance. 42.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.53 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 28573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 388 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 23 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28573. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,302 health care providers accessible to residents in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Pollocksville, NC (ZIP Code 28573)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management within Pollocksville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28573), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of resources available to residents managing hypertension and to identify areas for potential improvement.

The primary care physician (PCP) is the cornerstone of hypertension management. In Pollocksville, assessing PCP availability requires examining the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data must then be correlated with the population size to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care. The actual numbers, however, are dynamic and can fluctuate based on physician retirements, relocations, and changes in population demographics.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care practices is crucial. Are the practices geographically dispersed, ensuring easy access for all residents, or are they concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access barriers for those living in more remote locations? The presence of practices accepting new patients is also a critical factor. If practices are consistently at capacity, new patients may face significant delays in securing appointments, impacting their ability to receive timely care.

Several practices in the area may stand out for their commitment to hypertension management. This evaluation considers factors like the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the availability of support services. Practices that proactively screen patients for hypertension, offer regular blood pressure monitoring, and provide personalized treatment plans are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Practices that have a dedicated focus on preventative care, including lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, are also likely to be well-regarded.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in hypertension management, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Pollocksville is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving medication adherence through virtual check-ins and remote monitoring. The availability of virtual blood pressure monitoring programs and the ability to access specialists through telemedicine platforms are also important considerations. The extent to which practices utilize these technologies directly impacts the convenience and effectiveness of hypertension management.

The link between mental health and hypertension is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, making mental health resources a vital component of comprehensive hypertension care. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within the Pollocksville area is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care and provide referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The ability to access mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient education programs plays a critical role in empowering patients to manage their hypertension effectively. These resources provide patients with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to make lifestyle changes, adhere to medication regimens, and actively participate in their own care. The presence of these resources within the community demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and can lead to improved patient outcomes.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for Pollocksville is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. A higher score indicates better access to care, a greater emphasis on evidence-based practices, and a more comprehensive approach to hypertension management. A lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis also considers the cost of care, including insurance coverage, medication costs, and the availability of financial assistance programs. The affordability of care is a significant barrier to access for many patients. The presence of practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial counseling services can help to mitigate this barrier.

Finally, the analysis considers the role of public health initiatives in promoting hypertension awareness and prevention. Public health campaigns can educate the community about the risks of hypertension, encourage healthy lifestyle choices, and promote early detection and treatment. The involvement of local health departments and community organizations in hypertension management efforts is a positive indicator of community-wide commitment to improving health outcomes.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Pollocksville, NC (ZIP code 28573) is a multifaceted evaluation that considers the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of patient support services. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, residents and healthcare providers can work together to improve hypertension management and promote better health outcomes.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, explore the geographical patterns of physician locations, and analyze patient access in Pollocksville, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant factors.