28640, Jefferson, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.50 percent of the residents in 28640 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.87 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 28640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 776 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28640. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Jefferson, North Carolina (ZIP code 28640) requires a multi-faceted approach, evaluating both the availability of primary care physicians and the quality of care provided. This analysis aims to create a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease of access to care, the resources available for managing hypertension, and the overall support system for patients in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Jefferson, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians in this rural area is often a challenge. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. This scarcity necessitates an examination of how existing practices are adapting to meet the needs of the community.

Standout practices in the area often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. These practices frequently employ a team-based approach, incorporating nurses, medical assistants, and potentially even pharmacists to support physicians in managing patient care. They might also offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments for urgent needs, all of which contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score." Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and online patient portals significantly enhances access to care, especially for patients who live in geographically remote areas or have mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure, and provide timely interventions when necessary. The extent of telemedicine integration directly influences the "Hypertension Score," reflecting the practice's ability to leverage technology to improve patient outcomes.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of mental health resources is critical for successful hypertension management. Chronic conditions like hypertension can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This might involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health providers, or educational programs to address the psychological aspects of managing hypertension. The presence of these resources adds significant value to the "Hypertension Score."

The availability of specialized resources also contributes to the overall score. This includes access to certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and cardiovascular specialists. These professionals can provide tailored education, dietary counseling, and specialized medical care, which are essential components of comprehensive hypertension management. The presence of these specialists within the community or through readily available referral networks directly impacts the overall quality of care and, therefore, the "Hypertension Score."

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" also necessitates an assessment of patient education and support programs. Practices that offer patient education materials, support groups, and self-management programs empower patients to take an active role in their care. These programs can improve patient adherence to medication regimens, promote lifestyle modifications, and ultimately, lead to better blood pressure control. The presence and effectiveness of these programs are essential indicators of a practice's commitment to patient empowerment and contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score."

Furthermore, the overall "Hypertension Score" should consider the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate the efficient management of patient data, allowing physicians to track blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other relevant information. Practices that effectively utilize EHRs can improve the accuracy and efficiency of care, leading to better patient outcomes. The degree of EHR integration and its impact on clinical workflows are key factors in determining the "Hypertension Score."

Community outreach and partnerships also play a role. Practices that actively engage with the community through health fairs, educational events, and collaborations with local organizations demonstrate a commitment to improving public health. These initiatives raise awareness about hypertension, promote healthy lifestyles, and connect patients with resources. Such efforts contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score" by fostering a culture of health and wellness within the community.

The success of hypertension management also depends on the availability of affordable medications. Practices that assist patients in accessing affordable medications, either through partnerships with pharmacies or by providing information about patient assistance programs, contribute to better adherence to treatment plans. The practice's efforts to address the financial barriers to care are essential considerations in the "Hypertension Score" assessment.

Finally, the "Hypertension Score" should reflect patient satisfaction. Patient feedback, gathered through surveys and other methods, provides valuable insights into the quality of care. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction, actively seeking and responding to patient feedback, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. Patient satisfaction scores are a critical component of the overall assessment, reflecting the patient's experience and the effectiveness of the care provided.

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the quality of hypertension management in Jefferson, NC (ZIP code 28640). By considering the factors discussed above, a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" can be developed, offering valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This score can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide efforts to enhance the care provided to patients with hypertension.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and resources in Jefferson, NC, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, consider utilizing the interactive mapping tools provided by CartoChrome.