28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 28636 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.55 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 28636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,001 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern, and access to quality primary care is crucial for its effective management. This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension care within ZIP code 28636, focusing on Hiddenite, North Carolina, and assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. We will explore the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health services, all vital components of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Hiddenite (ZIP code 28636), this ratio can fluctuate. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and other sources provides insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the area and the estimated population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to appointments, reduced wait times, and improved continuity of care. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent medical attention, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension, which require regular monitoring and medication management. This ratio is a dynamic number, changing with physician recruitment, retirement, and population shifts.

Identifying standout practices within the Hiddenite area is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in hypertension management, including adherence to evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and proactive monitoring. Practices that proactively screen patients for hypertension, implement lifestyle modification counseling (diet, exercise, and stress management), and effectively manage medication regimens are particularly noteworthy. Electronic health record (EHR) systems can play a crucial role here. EHRs facilitate the tracking of patient data, enable automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, and provide tools for data analysis and quality improvement initiatives. Practices that leverage these technologies to optimize patient care often achieve superior outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing hypertension care. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers several advantages, particularly in rural areas like Hiddenite. It can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, making it easier for patients to connect with their physicians for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote blood pressure monitoring, allowing physicians to track patient progress and make timely adjustments to treatment plans. The level of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the technology infrastructure available, significantly impacts the accessibility and effectiveness of hypertension care.

The integration of mental health resources is also a crucial aspect of comprehensive hypertension management. The relationship between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Practices that recognize this connection and integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This may involve providing on-site mental health professionals, offering referrals to mental health specialists, or incorporating mental health screening tools into routine checkups. A holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being is essential for achieving optimal hypertension control.

To further analyze the hypertension care landscape in Hiddenite, specific data points are needed. This includes the number of primary care physicians practicing in the area, the average patient load per physician, the availability of specific hypertension management programs (e.g., blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling), the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. Information on the use of EHR systems, the adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and patient outcomes (e.g., blood pressure control rates) would also provide valuable insights. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the HRSA, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to gather some of this information.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also depends on patient education and engagement. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear and concise information about hypertension, its risk factors, and treatment options, are more likely to see positive outcomes. Patient engagement strategies, such as patient portals, mobile apps, and support groups, can empower patients to actively participate in their care and improve adherence to treatment plans. This includes providing resources in multiple formats (written materials, videos, online tools) to cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacies, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialists (e.g., cardiologists, nephrologists). Easy access to these services is essential for timely diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of hypertension-related complications. The proximity of these services to primary care practices and the coordination between different healthcare providers can significantly impact the patient experience and outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating the hypertension care landscape in Hiddenite (ZIP code 28636) requires a multi-faceted approach. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources are all critical components. Data on patient education, engagement, and the availability of ancillary services further contribute to a comprehensive understanding. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of hypertension care in Hiddenite and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hiddenite and visualize the data discussed, explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive maps provide detailed information on physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data, allowing for a deeper dive into the factors influencing hypertension care in the area.