28645, Lenoir, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28645, Lenoir, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.53 percent of the residents in 28645 has some form of health insurance. 44.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.27 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 28645 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,701 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28645. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,468 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,587 health care providers accessible to residents in 28645, Lenoir, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lenoir, NC (ZIP Code 28645)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 28645 (Lenoir, North Carolina), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a crucial element in controlling this widespread health concern. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, specifically concerning hypertension care. This analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Lenoir is a critical starting point. Access to primary care physicians is the cornerstone of effective hypertension management. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-physician interaction time, and ultimately, less effective care. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, general trends suggest that rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially impacting the ratio negatively in Lenoir. This would negatively affect the hypertension score.

Evaluating standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific providers operating within the ZIP code. Identifying practices that demonstrate exemplary hypertension management involves analyzing several key indicators. These indicators include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, address patient concerns promptly, and offer convenient access to care. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Lenoir's primary care practices will influence the hypertension score.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked but are essential for effective hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources, and their integration into hypertension care pathways, will have a positive impact on the score.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. A higher score signifies a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to manage hypertension effectively. This includes a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with strong hypertension management protocols, widespread telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A lower score indicates areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, encouraging the adoption of best practices, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and improving access to mental health services.

Specific examples of standout practices would include those that have implemented comprehensive hypertension management programs. These programs might involve regular blood pressure screenings, personalized treatment plans, patient education materials, and ongoing monitoring of patient progress. These practices might also utilize EHRs to track patient data and identify patients who are not meeting their blood pressure goals. Furthermore, practices that have embraced telemedicine to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services would also be considered standout.

The integration of mental health resources is another key area to consider. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health providers or offer in-house mental health services are better equipped to address the psychological factors that can impact hypertension management. These practices can provide patients with the support they need to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, which can ultimately lead to improved blood pressure control.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption would involve evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and medication management through telehealth platforms. Practices that have embraced these technologies can provide patients with convenient access to care, especially for those in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Lenoir's primary care practices would significantly impact the hypertension score.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' for Lenoir, NC (ZIP code 28645) is dependent on a multifaceted assessment. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of best practices by local providers, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components. Addressing any shortcomings in these areas is crucial for improving the quality of hypertension care in the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Lenoir, NC, and gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, allowing for a more informed assessment of the local healthcare ecosystem.