28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.80 percent of the residents in 28718 has some form of health insurance. 37.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.31 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 28718 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28718. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,306 health care providers accessible to residents in 28718, Cedar Mountain, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Cedar Mountain, NC (ZIP Code 28718)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Cedar Mountain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28718) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of technologies like telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and ultimately, the overall quality of care provided to manage and mitigate hypertension. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is consistent access to primary care. In Cedar Mountain, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise numbers fluctuate, we can infer based on regional data that the ratio might be slightly below the national average, potentially indicating a shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it more difficult for patients to receive timely diagnoses, regular check-ups, and necessary medication adjustments. This directly impacts hypertension control and patient outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the specific practices within the area deserve closer examination. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. These "standout practices" often implement evidence-based protocols for blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and patient education. They may employ registered nurses or certified medical assistants specifically trained in hypertension management, providing enhanced support for patients. Furthermore, these practices might actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and making adjustments to improve their performance. Identifying and highlighting these practices would be crucial for patients seeking the best possible care.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address some of the access challenges, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Cedar Mountain is a key indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and improved access. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, making it easier for patients to stay connected with their healthcare providers. The level of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, directly impacts the accessibility and effectiveness of hypertension care.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making it harder to control. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integration allows for early identification and treatment of mental health issues, potentially improving blood pressure control and overall patient well-being.

Furthermore, consider the availability of resources like patient education materials, support groups, and lifestyle modification programs. Practices that actively promote healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, exercise, and stress management, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. The availability of these resources, coupled with the integration of mental health services, paints a more complete picture of the quality of care provided.

Analyzing the data, we can begin to formulate a "Hypertension Score" for the area. This score would consider several factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of patient resources. Each factor would be weighted based on its importance, and a composite score would be generated. This score, while not a definitive measure, would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the overall quality of hypertension care in Cedar Mountain.

The process of gathering the data to calculate this score is complex. It involves collecting information from various sources, including physician directories, practice websites, insurance providers, and patient surveys. Data privacy and accuracy are paramount. The analysis must be conducted ethically and responsibly, ensuring that patient information is protected and that the findings are presented in a clear and unbiased manner.

The final "Hypertension Score" should not be viewed as a definitive ranking of individual physicians. Instead, it should serve as a tool to identify areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare infrastructure. This information can then be used to inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and improve the overall quality of care for patients with hypertension in Cedar Mountain. The goal is to create a more accessible, comprehensive, and effective healthcare system that empowers patients to manage their condition and live healthier lives.

The assessment of primary care availability in Cedar Mountain extends beyond the immediate boundaries of ZIP Code 28718. Patients often seek care outside their immediate area, especially if they have specific needs or preferences. Therefore, the analysis should consider the availability of primary care physicians in surrounding communities, including those in neighboring counties. This broader perspective provides a more realistic picture of the access to care for residents of Cedar Mountain.

In conclusion, the analysis of hypertension care in Cedar Mountain is a complex undertaking that requires a holistic approach. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient resources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape. This understanding is essential for improving the quality of care and empowering patients to manage their hypertension effectively.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Cedar Mountain and surrounding areas? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access using the power of CartoChrome maps.