28667, Rhodhiss, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28667, Rhodhiss, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.00 percent of the residents in 28667 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.50 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 28667 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28667. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,061 health care providers accessible to residents in 28667, Rhodhiss, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 28667, focusing on primary care physician availability in Rhodhiss, North Carolina. This evaluation incorporates factors influencing patient access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practice characteristics, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in effective hypertension control.

The first critical element is the physician-to-patient ratio. Rhodhiss, like many rural areas, potentially faces challenges in this regard. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, less comprehensive care. Determining the precise ratio requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, a preliminary assessment suggests a possible scarcity of primary care physicians relative to the population size within the 28667 ZIP Code. This scarcity necessitates creative solutions to ensure adequate access to hypertension management.

Standout practices within the area, if any, should be evaluated for their commitment to hypertension care. This would involve examining their patient volume, the specific services they offer, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Practices excelling in hypertension management often have dedicated programs, such as nurse-led clinics focused on patient education and medication management. They may also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, identify individuals at high risk, and ensure timely interventions. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians on staff would also be a significant indicator of a practice's commitment to comprehensive hypertension care.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in overcoming geographical barriers and increasing access to care, especially in areas with physician shortages. Practices embracing telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and medication refills. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with hypertension, allowing them to receive regular check-ups and support without the need for frequent in-person visits. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on several factors, including patient access to technology, digital literacy, and the availability of reliable internet connectivity. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within the 28667 ZIP Code requires assessing the technological infrastructure of local practices and patient adoption rates.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integration can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce the risk of complications, and enhance overall well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources requires investigating the referral networks of primary care practices and the presence of mental health professionals within the community.

Specific practices within the 28667 ZIP Code should be evaluated. For example, a clinic with a robust patient education program, offering group classes on lifestyle modifications and medication adherence, would be considered a strong contender. Another practice might stand out for its proactive use of EHRs to identify patients with uncontrolled hypertension and its implementation of automated reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments. The adoption of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, allowing patients to track their blood pressure at home and share the data with their physician, would also be a significant advantage.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also relies on patient education and engagement. Practices that empower patients to take an active role in their care, providing them with clear and concise information about their condition and treatment options, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This includes educating patients about the importance of healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management techniques. The availability of educational materials in multiple languages, catering to the diverse population within the ZIP Code, would further enhance patient engagement.

The quality of care also depends on the use of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology are more likely to provide optimal care. This includes the appropriate use of medications, regular blood pressure monitoring, and the timely management of any complications. Assessing the adherence to these guidelines requires examining the practice's protocols, treatment plans, and patient outcomes.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Rhodhiss and the quality of hypertension management within the 28667 ZIP Code should consider the presence of community resources. This includes access to pharmacies, exercise facilities, and healthy food options. The availability of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan and achieve optimal blood pressure control. The presence of community health workers, who can provide culturally sensitive education and support, would also be a valuable asset.

Evaluating the performance of practices also involves reviewing patient outcomes. This includes tracking the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the rate of hospitalizations for hypertension-related complications, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that consistently achieve positive outcomes demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. This data, however, is often difficult to obtain and may require access to patient records and outcome data.

In conclusion, the evaluation of hypertension management within the 28667 ZIP Code requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, patient education, adherence to guidelines, and community resources. The findings of this analysis will help to identify areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable insights for improving access to care and promoting optimal hypertension control within the Rhodhiss community.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, pharmacy locations, and community resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool can provide a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape within the 28667 ZIP Code, aiding in the identification of underserved areas and informing strategies for improving access to care. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.