28719, Cherokee, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.45 percent of the residents in 28719 has some form of health insurance. 38.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.43 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 28719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,090 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 511 health care providers accessible to residents in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Cherokee County, NC (ZIP Code 28719)

Analyzing hypertension management within Cherokee County, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the ZIP code 28719, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their patient loads, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to effective hypertension control. We will then attempt to derive a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" based on these observations, offering a snapshot of the current landscape.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Cherokee County is crucial. While precise numbers fluctuate, the county, and particularly the 28719 ZIP code, often faces challenges related to rural healthcare access. This can translate to a higher patient load per physician, potentially impacting the time available for comprehensive patient evaluations, education, and follow-up care. The ideal scenario would be a ratio that allows physicians ample time to address the complexities of hypertension, including lifestyle modifications, medication management, and regular monitoring.

Within the county, certain practices might stand out in their approach to hypertension care. These "standout practices" would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This could involve employing registered nurses or certified medical assistants specifically trained in hypertension management. These professionals could assist with patient education on topics like diet, exercise, and medication adherence. They might also implement robust systems for tracking patient blood pressure readings and proactively reaching out to patients with elevated readings. Furthermore, these practices may prioritize the use of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment, ensuring patients receive the most up-to-date and effective care.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians for virtual check-ups, medication refills, and educational sessions. The adoption rate of telemedicine within the 28719 ZIP code is a key indicator of the potential for improved access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are likely better positioned to provide consistent and convenient care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The interplay between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder effective treatment. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.

Based on the factors discussed, we can attempt to formulate a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for the 28719 ZIP code. This score would be a composite measure, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A higher ratio (more patients per physician) would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a lower ratio would positively influence the score.
* **Standout Practices:** The presence of practices with comprehensive hypertension management programs, including specialized staff and evidence-based protocols, would significantly boost the score.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Widespread telemedicine adoption, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, would enhance the score, particularly in a rural setting.
* **Mental Health Integration:** The availability of on-site mental health services or strong referral networks would contribute positively to the score.

A low score might indicate limited access to primary care, a lack of specialized hypertension management programs, minimal telemedicine adoption, and insufficient integration of mental health resources. Conversely, a high score would suggest a robust healthcare infrastructure with readily available primary care, innovative practices, widespread telemedicine use, and a strong focus on mental well-being.

It is important to note that this hypothetical score is a simplified representation of a complex reality. A comprehensive assessment would require access to detailed data on physician staffing, practice protocols, telemedicine utilization, and mental health service availability. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, could provide some insights, but a thorough analysis would likely necessitate direct engagement with healthcare providers in the 28719 ZIP code.

Improving hypertension management in Cherokee County requires a multi-pronged approach. Addressing the physician shortage, supporting the development of innovative practices, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health resources are all crucial steps. Community initiatives, public health campaigns, and collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations can further enhance the effectiveness of these efforts.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cherokee County and the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians and mental health facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to analyze the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant factors. This can provide valuable insights into areas with limited access to care and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.