28582, Stella, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28582, Stella, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 28582 has some form of health insurance. 29.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.49 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 28582 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28582. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 423 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,877 health care providers accessible to residents in 28582, Stella, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Stella, NC (ZIP Code 28582)

The coastal community of Stella, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 28582, presents a unique environment for primary care and the management of hypertension. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of services, and the potential impact on hypertension control within the area. We will assess the landscape, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" perspective.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and quality primary care. In Stella, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and potentially improved patient outcomes. However, the exact ratio within the ZIP code requires specific data collection. Publicly available information, such as the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, can provide estimates. Further, examining the number of active primary care practices, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, is crucial.

The presence of standout practices within the area is also important. These practices may exhibit exemplary hypertension management protocols, such as regular blood pressure screenings, medication adherence support, and patient education programs. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive. This includes analyzing online patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized equipment, and evaluating the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better data management, medication reconciliation, and communication between healthcare providers. Furthermore, the presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within a practice can significantly enhance the care provided to patients with hypertension, especially those with co-morbidities like diabetes.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Stella. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care providers can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or have mobility issues. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption requires investigating the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows.

Mental health plays a crucial role in hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, and addressing these issues is essential for effective control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is vital. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, or the establishment of referral pathways to mental health services within the community. Assessing the presence of these resources is essential for a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis.

Beyond the immediate healthcare providers, the overall healthcare ecosystem in Stella must be considered. This includes the availability of local pharmacies, access to affordable medications, and the presence of community health programs that promote healthy lifestyles. For example, the availability of local pharmacies ensures convenient access to medications, while community health programs can provide education on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management.

The "Hypertension Score" for Stella, NC (28582) is not a single, easily quantifiable number. It is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. The score is a reflection of the accessibility of primary care, the quality of services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. A high score would indicate excellent access to quality care, robust telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health services, and a supportive community environment. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine capabilities, and expanding mental health resources.

To improve the "Hypertension Score," several strategies can be implemented. Recruiting additional primary care physicians to address the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. Investing in telemedicine infrastructure and training can improve access to care for patients. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices can provide comprehensive care. Supporting community health programs that promote healthy lifestyles can empower patients to take control of their health.

Finally, the dynamic nature of healthcare necessitates ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The "Hypertension Score" is not a static measure. It should be reassessed periodically to track progress, identify emerging challenges, and adapt to changing healthcare trends.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Stella, NC (28582), including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and community health resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access.