28735, Gerton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28735 has some form of health insurance. 40.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.41 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 28735 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28735. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,055 health care providers accessible to residents in 28735, Gerton, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Gerton, NC (ZIP Code 28735)

Analyzing the state of hypertension management in Gerton, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This assessment considers the availability of primary care physicians, their practices concerning hypertension diagnosis and treatment, the accessibility of mental health resources (given the comorbidity of hypertension and mental health conditions), and the adoption of telemedicine to improve patient access to care. The ultimate goal is to provide a 'Hypertension Score' that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of hypertension care within the community. This analysis focuses on the specific context of ZIP code 28735, encompassing the town of Gerton.

The foundation of effective hypertension management is access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Gerton, and the surrounding areas that serve it, is a critical factor. Determining the exact ratio requires data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, is a significant barrier to care. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, making it difficult to establish regular check-ups and medication management plans, both crucial for hypertension control. Furthermore, a scarcity of physicians can lead to burnout and reduced availability, further exacerbating the problem.

The practices of the available primary care physicians are the next critical component of the Hypertension Score. This includes their adherence to established guidelines for hypertension diagnosis and treatment, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Key indicators include the frequency of blood pressure screenings, the use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) when indicated, and the prompt initiation of appropriate medication regimens. The documentation of these practices in patient records is also essential. Analyzing the use of electronic health records (EHRs) can provide insights into how well physicians are tracking patient data and adhering to best practices.

Identifying standout practices within the 28735 ZIP code is crucial. These practices serve as models for other providers. They may exhibit exceptional patient outcomes, demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education, or have implemented innovative approaches to hypertension management. For example, a practice might have a dedicated nurse educator who provides individualized counseling on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, or a pharmacist who assists with medication management and adherence. These practices should be highlighted and their strategies disseminated to improve the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Gerton. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling to a physician's office. This includes virtual consultations for medication refills, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling. The availability of remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices, which allow patients to track their blood pressure at home and share the data with their physician, is also a significant advantage. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and RPM can contribute significantly to improving the Hypertension Score.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure, and individuals with hypertension are more likely to experience mental health conditions. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources in the Gerton area is an essential consideration. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their hypertension management programs, either through in-house providers or referrals, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The ability to address both physical and mental health needs is crucial for achieving optimal patient outcomes.

The quality of care is also influenced by patient education. Practices that proactively educate patients about hypertension, its risk factors, and the importance of lifestyle modifications are more likely to achieve better outcomes. This includes providing educational materials, conducting group classes, and offering one-on-one counseling. The ability to communicate effectively with patients, using clear and understandable language, is also essential. Patient empowerment through education is a key factor in improving adherence to treatment plans and achieving long-term blood pressure control.

Another factor to consider is the availability of ancillary services, such as diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing. The ability to quickly and easily access these services is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of hypertension. Practices that are affiliated with hospitals or other healthcare facilities that offer these services can provide more comprehensive care. This includes access to echocardiograms, kidney function tests, and other diagnostic tools that are essential for assessing the impact of hypertension on other organ systems.

The overall Hypertension Score for Gerton, NC (ZIP code 28735) is therefore a composite measure. It reflects the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the degree of patient education. A high score indicates a well-resourced community with accessible, high-quality hypertension care. A low score indicates areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care providers, improving adherence to treatment guidelines, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing access to mental health services.

This analysis provides a general overview. For a more detailed and visually informative assessment, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the factors discussed, allowing you to understand the landscape of hypertension care in Gerton and identify areas for improvement.