28705, Bakersville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28705, Bakersville, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 28705 has some form of health insurance. 42.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.47 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 28705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,341 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28705. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,212 health care providers accessible to residents in 28705, Bakersville, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the quality of hypertension care within ZIP Code 28705, focusing on the town of Bakersville, North Carolina. It evaluates primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices, including telemedicine and mental health support, to formulate a “Hypertension Score.” This score, though not a precise number, provides a qualitative assessment of the resources available to manage and treat hypertension within this specific geographic area.

Bakersville, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The town's rural nature, coupled with its aging population, necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure capable of effectively managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The availability of primary care physicians is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio in Bakersville is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer outcomes for individuals with hypertension. Accurate data on this ratio, including the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the total population, is essential for a complete evaluation. This information, ideally obtained from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, will allow for a preliminary assessment of the healthcare landscape.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by the existing practices is equally important. Standout practices demonstrate excellence in hypertension management through various means. This includes the use of evidence-based guidelines, regular blood pressure monitoring, patient education programs, and proactive medication management. Practices that prioritize patient engagement and empower individuals to take an active role in their health are likely to achieve better outcomes. Reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice accreditations (such as those from the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and examining the availability of specialized services like registered dietitians or certified diabetes educators can help identify these exemplary practices.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure readings and provide timely feedback can also enhance patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of user-friendly telehealth platforms and the integration of these platforms into the practice’s workflow are key indicators of effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are also a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This can include on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists or psychiatrists, and the promotion of stress-reduction techniques. The presence of these resources reflects a commitment to comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the availability of readily accessible information about hypertension management is important. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and support groups, empower them to make informed decisions about their health. The use of patient portals, which allow individuals to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and track their progress, is another positive indicator.

The evaluation should also consider the presence of support services. The availability of pharmacies within the area, including those offering medication adherence programs, is essential for ensuring patients can easily access their prescribed medications. The existence of community health initiatives focused on hypertension prevention and management can also contribute to a higher score.

Finally, the ability of practices to coordinate care with other healthcare providers, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is an important aspect of the Hypertension Score. Effective communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals ensure that patients receive the specialized care they need.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for doctors in ZIP Code 28705 and primary care availability in Bakersville is determined by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of support services all contribute to the overall assessment. While a precise numerical score is difficult to assign without comprehensive data, this qualitative analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension care within this specific geographic area. A high score indicates a well-resourced healthcare environment that effectively manages hypertension, while a low score suggests areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bakersville and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data, allowing you to analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare services and identify areas with limited access to care.