28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.65 percent of the residents in 28739 has some form of health insurance. 44.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 28739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,836 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,970 health care providers accessible to residents in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28739)

Analyzing hypertension management within Hendersonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28739) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, quality of care, and access to supporting resources. This analysis will provide a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" ranking, focusing on key performance indicators and highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape. This is not a real-world ranking, but rather an illustrative exercise.

The "Hypertension Score" will be based on several factors. Firstly, the **Physician-to-Patient Ratio** is crucial. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates greater access to care and potentially more personalized attention. Secondly, the **Quality of Care Metrics** will be considered, including adherence to national guidelines for hypertension management (e.g., JNC8 or ACC/AHA guidelines), rates of blood pressure control, and rates of complications like heart attacks and strokes. Thirdly, the **Availability of Supporting Resources** such as access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and mental health services will be evaluated. Finally, **Telemedicine Adoption** and its impact on patient access and convenience will be assessed.

Hendersonville, like many rural areas, may face challenges related to physician shortages. The physician-to-patient ratio in the area is a critical starting point. A high ratio could necessitate longer wait times for appointments and potentially lead to patients delaying or forgoing necessary care. This impacts the Hypertension Score negatively. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating better access, would positively influence the score. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Census Bureau, would be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio.

Examining the quality of care requires analyzing data from various sources. This would include reviewing publicly available data on hospital readmission rates for heart failure and stroke, as well as data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on quality measures for hypertension control. Practices that demonstrate consistently high rates of blood pressure control and low complication rates would receive higher scores. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to facilitate data collection, tracking, and adherence to clinical guidelines would be a key consideration. Practices with robust EHR systems, capable of generating reports on patient outcomes and facilitating proactive interventions, would be favored.

The availability of supporting resources is a crucial component of effective hypertension management. Access to registered dietitians, who can provide dietary counseling and education on sodium reduction and healthy eating habits, is essential. Certified diabetes educators are also vital, as hypertension often co-exists with diabetes. Mental health services are equally important. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure, and access to therapists and counselors who can address these issues is crucial. Practices that have integrated these resources into their care models would be recognized with higher scores.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and patient portals, would be assessed. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, making it easier for patients to receive timely care and follow-up, would receive higher scores. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to better blood pressure control.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare landscape. For example, a hypothetical practice, "Blue Ridge Primary Care," might be recognized for its commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This practice could have a lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating better access. They might have a dedicated team including a registered dietitian and a mental health counselor. Blue Ridge Primary Care could also be recognized for its robust telemedicine program, offering virtual consultations and remote blood pressure monitoring. Their high rates of blood pressure control and low complication rates would further solidify their position as a leader in hypertension care.

Another hypothetical practice, "Mountain View Family Medicine," might be commended for its patient-centered approach. They could have implemented a patient education program, providing patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their hypertension effectively. They might also have a strong partnership with a local pharmacy, ensuring that patients have access to affordable medications.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The integration of mental health services is a key factor in the Hypertension Score. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Access to mental health professionals, either within the primary care practice or through referrals, is crucial. Practices that prioritize mental health screening and provide access to counseling or therapy would receive higher scores. The ability to address the psychological aspects of hypertension management can significantly improve patient outcomes.

**Hypothetical Hypertension Score Ranking:**

Based on the factors discussed, a hypothetical ranking could be generated. Practices with a lower physician-to-patient ratio, excellent quality of care metrics, integrated supporting resources, and robust telemedicine programs would receive higher scores. The ranking would be dynamic, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve hypertension management.

**Conclusion:**

Effective hypertension management requires a holistic approach, encompassing physician availability, quality of care, access to supporting resources, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. The healthcare landscape in Hendersonville, NC, presents both opportunities and challenges. By focusing on these key areas, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of hypertension in the community.

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