28743, Hot Springs, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28743, Hot Springs, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.68 percent of the residents in 28743 has some form of health insurance. 44.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.16 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 28743 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 386 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28743. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 573 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 492 health care providers accessible to residents in 28743, Hot Springs, North Carolina.

The challenge of managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health concern, particularly in areas where access to quality primary care might be limited. This analysis will delve into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 28743, encompassing Hot Springs, North Carolina, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians and the resources dedicated to addressing this critical health issue.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric for assessing access to care. In 28743, the ratio likely mirrors the broader challenges faced by rural communities. These areas often grapple with a shortage of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, specialists, and support staff. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access, leading to more frequent check-ups, early diagnosis, and proactive management of conditions like hypertension. Conversely, a higher ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying treatment and increasing the risk of complications. The specific ratio within 28743 requires investigation through data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of hypertension management. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician are crucial for monitoring blood pressure, identifying risk factors, and implementing lifestyle modifications and medication regimens. The presence of a robust primary care network, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, is essential. The analysis must assess the number of primary care practices within the ZIP Code, their capacity to accept new patients, and their hours of operation. This also necessitates an examination of the patient demographics of these practices, including age, insurance coverage, and socioeconomic factors, as these elements can significantly impact access to care.

Identifying standout practices within 28743 requires a deeper dive into their operational models and clinical practices. Are there practices that prioritize hypertension management through specialized programs or dedicated staff? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients' schedules? Do they actively engage in patient education, providing resources and support for lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and stress management? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and employing innovative strategies, should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving medication adherence. The analysis must evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in 28743 utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology infrastructure available, and the patient and provider satisfaction with these services. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management protocols should be recognized.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in hypertension management, yet they play a crucial role. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing these underlying factors. The analysis needs to examine the availability of mental health providers within 28743, the types of services offered, and the level of integration between primary care and mental health services. Practices that have established collaborative relationships with mental health professionals or offer integrated behavioral health services should be commended.

The quality of care for hypertension management is also influenced by the availability of ancillary services. Access to diagnostic testing, such as blood pressure monitoring devices, laboratory services, and cardiovascular imaging, is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. The analysis should assess the availability of these services within 28743, including the turnaround time for results and the cost of services. Furthermore, the availability of pharmacy services, including medication dispensing and medication therapy management, is also crucial. Practices that have established strong relationships with pharmacies and offer medication adherence support programs should be recognized.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for the doctors in 28743 would be a composite measure. It would factor in the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of primary care practices, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the access to ancillary services. Each of these components would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension management. The resulting score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in 28743, highlighting areas of strength and weakness.

The analysis should also consider the role of community resources in supporting hypertension management. This includes the availability of community health programs, such as blood pressure screenings, health education classes, and support groups. The analysis should assess the reach and effectiveness of these programs in reaching the population at risk for hypertension. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the role of local organizations, such as hospitals, clinics, and community centers, in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing hypertension.

Understanding the demographics of the population within 28743 is also crucial. The prevalence of hypertension varies across different demographic groups, including age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The analysis should consider the specific needs of these groups and assess the extent to which healthcare services are tailored to meet their needs. This includes assessing the availability of culturally competent care and the use of language services.

In conclusion, the management of hypertension in 28743 presents a complex challenge. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the support of community resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. A comprehensive analysis, including the factors discussed above, is essential for developing effective strategies to improve hypertension management and reduce the burden of this preventable condition.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28743 and explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and community health programs, consider exploring a CartoChrome map. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the factors influencing hypertension management in Hot Springs.