28624, Ferguson, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.67 percent of the residents in 28624 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.45 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 28624 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28624. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Ferguson, NC (ZIP Code 28624)

Ferguson, North Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to managing hypertension. This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care availability and the potential for effective hypertension management within the 28624 ZIP code, focusing on key factors that contribute to patient outcomes. We will assess the current state of physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in controlling this prevalent condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Ferguson, and indeed Wilkes County as a whole, is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face a shortage of primary care physicians, creating potential barriers to timely and consistent care. A high patient-to-physician ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially less comprehensive management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Accurate data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 28624 ZIP code is paramount. Publicly available resources from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Department of Health & Human Services, and local hospital systems should be consulted to ascertain this crucial metric. This information allows for a baseline understanding of access to care.

Identifying standout practices within the community is key to understanding best practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension management often exhibit specific characteristics. These include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, proactive patient education programs, regular monitoring of blood pressure, and a strong emphasis on lifestyle modifications. Practices employing registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and behavioral health specialists, as part of an integrated care team, are likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and population health management are well-positioned to identify and address hypertension effectively. A thorough review of local physician websites, patient reviews, and potentially, direct outreach to practices, is necessary to identify these high-performing clinics.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within the 28624 ZIP code is a significant factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, medication management, and patient education, all of which are crucial for hypertension control. The availability of reliable internet connectivity and patient access to technology are key determinants of telemedicine’s effectiveness. Assessing the adoption rate of telemedicine among local primary care practices, including the types of services offered and the patient population served, provides valuable insights. Information about the availability of telemedicine services can often be found on practice websites or through direct inquiry.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and hypertension is critical. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within Ferguson is, therefore, a vital component of comprehensive hypertension management. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or seamless referral pathways to mental health providers, is ideal. Investigating the presence of these resources, along with their accessibility and affordability, provides a more complete picture of the community's ability to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension.

To understand the current state of hypertension management, data on the prevalence of hypertension within the 28624 ZIP code is essential. Public health agencies and local hospital systems often collect and analyze this type of data. This information can be compared to state and national averages to assess the specific challenges and needs of the community. Analyzing the demographics of the hypertensive population, including age, race, and socioeconomic status, can help tailor interventions and resources to the specific needs of the community.

The effectiveness of any hypertension management program relies heavily on patient education and engagement. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about hypertension, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence, are more likely to see positive outcomes. Assessing the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and educational programs is a key aspect of this analysis. Patient empowerment through education leads to better self-management and improved health outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as exercise programs, healthy food options, and support groups, can significantly impact hypertension control. Investigating the presence of these resources and their accessibility is essential. Collaboration between primary care practices and community organizations can create a supportive environment for patients to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle habits. Such partnerships can improve health outcomes.

Ultimately, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape of hypertension management within the 28624 ZIP code. By assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and exploring the availability of mental health resources, we can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to inform strategies for improving access to care, enhancing the quality of care, and ultimately, improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ferguson, including the location of primary care practices, telemedicine providers, and community resources, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers detailed mapping solutions that can help you visualize and analyze the data discussed in this report, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving hypertension management in your community.