28616, Crossnore, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 36.84 percent of the residents in 28616 has some form of health insurance. 17.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.63 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 28616 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28616. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,976 health care providers accessible to residents in 28616, Crossnore, North Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28616 and Primary Care Availability in Crossnore**

The assessment of hypertension management within ZIP code 28616, encompassing the town of Crossnore, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and identify any standout practices. This will culminate in a 'Hypertension Score' reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is readily accessible primary care. In Crossnore, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The town's rural setting presents unique challenges, including potential geographic limitations and a smaller pool of healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. The density of primary care practices within the ZIP code is a key indicator. Are there enough physicians to adequately serve the population, particularly considering the prevalence of hypertension, a condition often associated with aging and lifestyle factors common in rural communities?

The physician-to-patient ratio offers a quantifiable metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care quality. Data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within 28616, compared to the total population, will be crucial in calculating this ratio. This ratio, when compared to state and national averages, provides context for understanding the relative accessibility of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Crossnore can significantly impact hypertension management. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, reducing the need for in-person visits. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration involves determining which practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and digital platforms for patient communication. The presence of these technologies can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and hinder treatment effectiveness. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is therefore crucial. This analysis will investigate whether primary care practices in 28616 offer on-site mental health services, collaborate with mental health professionals, or provide resources for patients struggling with mental health challenges. The integration of mental health care can lead to more holistic and effective hypertension management.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Some practices may excel in hypertension management through innovative programs, patient education initiatives, or superior patient outcomes. These practices may employ evidence-based guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education, and actively monitor patient progress. Examining patient reviews, assessing the use of electronic health records for hypertension management, and evaluating the practices' commitment to continuous quality improvement will help identify those practices that demonstrate exceptional care.

The 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It will incorporate weighted values for physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the presence of standout practices. A higher score will indicate a greater availability of resources and a more supportive environment for managing hypertension. This score will provide a snapshot of the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care in 28616.

The challenges of providing healthcare in rural settings, such as Crossnore, are well-documented. The relatively low population density, the potential for limited access to specialists, and the geographic isolation can create obstacles. However, the community's resilience and the dedication of healthcare providers can overcome these challenges.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population within 28616. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and health literacy can influence hypertension prevalence and management. Understanding these demographics will provide valuable context for interpreting the 'Hypertension Score' and identifying areas for improvement.

The analysis will also consider the use of electronic health records (EHRs) by primary care practices. EHRs can facilitate data collection, improve care coordination, and enhance patient monitoring. The extent to which practices utilize EHRs for hypertension management, including tracking blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, will be assessed.

The integration of patient education programs is another important aspect of hypertension management. Effective patient education can empower individuals to take an active role in managing their condition. The analysis will investigate whether primary care practices offer patient education materials, group classes, or individual counseling sessions focused on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring.

The 'Hypertension Score' will be a dynamic measure. It will be subject to change as healthcare practices evolve, new technologies emerge, and community needs shift. Regular updates to the score will be necessary to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 28616 will serve as a valuable resource for individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to hypertension management. This information can be used to inform healthcare decisions, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for increased resources and support.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28616 and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, telemedicine availability, and mental health resources, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential gaps in care.