28579, Smyrna, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28579, Smyrna, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 67.55 percent of the residents in 28579 has some form of health insurance. 25.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.51 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 28579 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28579. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 157 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,117 health care providers accessible to residents in 28579, Smyrna, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Smyrna, NC (ZIP Code 28579)

Evaluating healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, requires a multi-faceted approach. For Smyrna, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28579), this analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess their practices regarding hypertension care, and explore related resources. This will culminate in a "Hypertension Score" analysis, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Smyrna is a crucial starting point. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer estimates. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create barriers to timely appointments and ongoing care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. This ratio directly impacts the ability of residents to receive initial diagnoses, medication management, and lifestyle counseling, all critical components of hypertension control.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians matters. Are they clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Analyzing geographic accessibility, using tools like drive-time analysis, reveals potential healthcare deserts within the ZIP code. This analysis considers travel times to the nearest primary care practices, factoring in traffic patterns and road infrastructure. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also significant. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and can play a vital role in hypertension screening and treatment.

Individual practice characteristics significantly influence hypertension care quality. A "Hypertension Score" analysis would assess several key metrics. First, the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology, is paramount. This involves evaluating whether physicians routinely screen for hypertension, measure blood pressure accurately, and initiate appropriate pharmacological interventions when necessary. Electronic health record (EHR) systems are essential in this regard, allowing for automated alerts, reminders, and data tracking.

Another important factor is the practice's approach to patient education and lifestyle modification. Does the practice offer or refer patients to resources like nutritional counseling, exercise programs, and smoking cessation support? These lifestyle interventions are crucial in managing hypertension and reducing the need for medication or augmenting its effectiveness. The availability of on-site or affiliated pharmacies can also improve medication adherence, a critical factor in controlling blood pressure.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor blood pressure remotely, and provide medication refills electronically can significantly improve access to care and convenience for patients. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities would receive a higher score in this analysis. The integration of remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices, such as blood pressure cuffs that transmit readings directly to the physician, is another positive indicator.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals or have established collaborative relationships with mental health providers receive a higher score. This integration of behavioral health services promotes a holistic approach to patient care.

Standout practices within Smyrna would be identified based on their performance across these key metrics. Practices with a high "Hypertension Score" would demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, patient education, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration. These practices would be considered leaders in hypertension management within the community. Conversely, practices that fall short in these areas would be identified as areas for improvement, highlighting opportunities for quality improvement initiatives.

The "Hypertension Score" analysis would also consider the availability of community resources. Are there local support groups for individuals with hypertension? Are there public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing hypertension? The presence of these resources contributes to a supportive environment for patients and enhances the overall effectiveness of hypertension management efforts.

The final "Hypertension Score" for Smyrna, NC (ZIP Code 28579) would be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, geographic accessibility of care, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and availability of community resources. This score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. This score isn't a static number; it’s a dynamic reflection of the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers and the community to improve health outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smyrna, NC (ZIP Code 28579), including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a powerful way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management.