28734, Franklin, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28734, Franklin, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.85 percent of the residents in 28734 has some form of health insurance. 46.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.08 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 28734 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,804 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28734. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,430 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,688 health care providers accessible to residents in 28734, Franklin, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Franklin, NC (ZIP Code 28734)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of hypertension management capabilities within Franklin, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28734), focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to manage this prevalent health condition. The goal is to understand the landscape for patients seeking care and to identify areas of strength and potential improvement. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive hypertension care.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible primary care. In Franklin, the physician-to-patient ratio plays a critical role. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, more personalized care, and ultimately, better patient outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up appointments, all of which can negatively impact hypertension control. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires a detailed analysis of the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28734 ZIP code, weighed against the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates from the US Census Bureau, would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the community is also important. Are physicians concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of Franklin? Are there any underserved populations who may face significant barriers to accessing primary care? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility of hypertension management services.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This assessment would involve evaluating several key metrics. Are practices actively screening patients for hypertension? Are they utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment? Do they have systems in place for regular blood pressure monitoring and follow-up appointments? Furthermore, are these practices actively engaging patients in their care, providing education about lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and the importance of regular check-ups? The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also vital. Practices with robust EHR systems can more easily track patient data, identify trends, and tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural communities like Franklin. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The analysis would examine the extent to which primary care practices in Franklin offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring), the technology used, and the patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to elevated blood pressure and can also make it more difficult for patients to adhere to their treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension care. The analysis would investigate the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in Franklin, as well as the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Do primary care physicians have access to mental health specialists for referrals? Are there any programs that address the mental health needs of patients with hypertension? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes.

To further assess the quality of hypertension management, the analysis would also consider the availability of other supportive services. This includes access to registered dietitians who can provide nutritional counseling, certified diabetes educators who can help patients manage related conditions, and pharmacists who can provide medication management and patient education. The presence of these ancillary services contributes to a more holistic approach to patient care.

A critical aspect of hypertension management is patient education. Patients need to understand their condition, the importance of lifestyle modifications, and the proper use of medications. The analysis would assess the extent to which primary care practices provide patient education materials and resources. This includes the availability of educational pamphlets, online resources, and group education sessions.

The analysis would also consider the role of community resources in supporting hypertension management. This includes the availability of community health programs, support groups, and exercise facilities. These resources can help patients adopt healthy lifestyle habits and improve their overall well-being.

The analysis would evaluate the level of collaboration among healthcare providers in Franklin. Effective hypertension management often requires a team-based approach, involving primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. The analysis would assess the extent to which these providers collaborate and share information to ensure coordinated patient care.

The presence of any specific programs or initiatives aimed at improving hypertension management in Franklin would also be examined. This includes participation in quality improvement programs, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the implementation of innovative approaches to patient care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' for Franklin, NC (28734) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of care provided by primary care practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and exploring the availability of mental health and other supportive resources. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of hypertension management in the community and identify areas for improvement.

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