28584, Swansboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.20 percent of the residents in 28584 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.45 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 28584 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28584. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,838 health care providers accessible to residents in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Swansboro, NC (ZIP Code 28584)

This analysis provides a Hypertension Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 28584 (Swansboro, North Carolina), focusing on factors influencing hypertension management and patient access. The goal is to provide an informed overview of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The core of this assessment revolves around the quality of primary care, as it serves as the first line of defense against hypertension. Effective management requires regular check-ups, medication adherence, lifestyle counseling, and timely referrals to specialists when necessary. We will examine the availability of these services within Swansboro, considering both physician availability and the resources available to support patient care.

One crucial aspect is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can strain resources and potentially limit access to timely appointments and comprehensive care. While precise figures fluctuate, the national average for primary care physicians is approximately 1:1,300. In areas with a lower ratio, the potential for improved patient outcomes is significantly higher. Understanding the local ratio in Swansboro is critical to evaluating the accessibility of care. Researching the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with the population data, will provide an initial indication of the availability of care. This data point alone, however, does not tell the whole story.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of the local medical practices are essential. Are there large, multi-specialty groups, or are practices primarily composed of solo practitioners? Larger groups often have the advantage of shared resources, including electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate communication and coordination of care. They may also offer a wider range of services, such as on-site labs and pharmacies, improving patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Solo practitioners, on the other hand, may provide a more personalized approach, fostering strong doctor-patient relationships that are vital for effective chronic disease management. The presence of practices with specialized hypertension clinics or dedicated nurse educators can also be a positive indicator of quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. This is especially relevant for hypertension management, as patients can monitor their blood pressure at home and share readings with their physician remotely. The availability of telemedicine services, the types of platforms used, and the extent of their integration with EHRs are important indicators of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care. A practice with established telemedicine capabilities is likely to be more responsive to patient needs and can offer more frequent check-ins, which can be crucial in managing hypertension.

Mental health resources are also inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Effective management requires addressing both physical and mental health needs. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. The availability of these resources, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a crucial factor in the overall quality of care.

Standout practices within Swansboro should be identified based on their commitment to hypertension management. This includes practices that demonstrate a high level of patient engagement, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and have implemented innovative approaches to care delivery. These practices often excel in patient education, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. They may also have a strong focus on preventive care, identifying and addressing risk factors early on. Identifying these practices will provide valuable insights into best practices and potential areas for improvement across the community.

Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys are also important indicators. While subjective, patient feedback can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction with care. Analyzing these reviews can highlight areas where practices excel and areas where they may need to improve. This information can be used to identify practices that prioritize patient-centered care and provide a positive patient experience.

Assessing the availability of resources for patients with limited financial resources is also crucial. Does the area have access to free or low-cost clinics? Do local practices accept Medicaid or offer sliding-scale fees? Addressing the financial barriers to care is essential to ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their ability to pay. This information is vital in determining the overall accessibility of care within the community.

Finally, the presence of community health initiatives and partnerships can enhance the quality of care. Collaborations between healthcare providers, local organizations, and public health agencies can promote health education, disease prevention, and access to resources. These partnerships can play a vital role in improving hypertension management outcomes.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the hypertension care landscape in Swansboro. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient feedback, a comprehensive Hypertension Score can be developed. This score will provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to assess the quality of care and identify areas for improvement.

For a more detailed visual analysis of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care resources within Swansboro, NC (ZIP code 28584), we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. This resource allows you to visually explore the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing hypertension management in your community.