28803, Asheville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28803, Asheville, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.41 percent of the residents in 28803 has some form of health insurance. 33.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.69 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 28803 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28803. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,318 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,845 health care providers accessible to residents in 28803, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28803)

Analyzing hypertension management within Asheville, NC's 28803 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of physicians but also the accessibility of primary care, the integration of innovative healthcare solutions, and the availability of crucial support systems like mental health resources. This analysis will attempt to paint a picture of the landscape, offering a ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment based on available data and observations, while acknowledging the inherent complexities of such an evaluation.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In 28803, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area generally faces a challenge in this regard. Higher patient-to-physician ratios can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care, all of which negatively impact hypertension control. This scarcity necessitates a focus on optimizing existing resources and exploring alternative care models.

Standout practices within the 28803 area are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to hypertension management. This includes practices that employ standardized protocols for blood pressure screening, provide patient education materials, and actively monitor medication adherence. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can also improve hypertension management by facilitating data analysis, identifying at-risk patients, and streamlining communication between healthcare providers. The implementation of these best practices contributes to a higher ‘Hypertension Score’ for these specific entities.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. In the context of hypertension, telemedicine allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows can potentially improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on in-person appointments. The availability of telehealth options directly impacts the ‘Hypertension Score’ as it enhances accessibility.

Beyond the clinical aspects, the integration of mental health resources is crucial. Hypertension is often exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals, significantly impacts a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively. Practices that prioritize mental health integration, such as offering on-site counseling or establishing strong referral networks, receive a higher ‘Hypertension Score’ due to their holistic approach to patient well-being.

The overall ‘Hypertension Score’ for 28803 is likely moderate. The challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and the need for wider telemedicine adoption are significant. However, the presence of dedicated practices, the growing awareness of mental health integration, and the overall commitment to improving healthcare in Asheville offer opportunities for improvement.

Further analysis is needed to refine this assessment. This includes gathering more precise data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices. Patient satisfaction surveys, which gauge the quality of care and access to services, are also essential.

The complexities of hypertension management extend beyond simple metrics. Socioeconomic factors, such as access to healthy food and safe environments for physical activity, also play a crucial role. Addressing these broader determinants of health is essential for achieving optimal outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to improve the overall ‘Hypertension Score’.

The effectiveness of a hypertension management program relies on several factors. The first is the availability of primary care physicians. Primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, providing initial screening, diagnosis, and ongoing care. The second factor is patient education and engagement. Patients need to understand their condition, the importance of medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. The third is access to resources, such as affordable medications, healthy food options, and support groups.

The impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension control is significant. Patients with limited access to healthy food, safe environments for exercise, and reliable transportation may struggle to manage their condition effectively. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for achieving equitable outcomes.

The use of technology can also play a vital role in improving hypertension management. Telemedicine, remote blood pressure monitoring, and mobile health applications can enhance patient engagement, improve medication adherence, and facilitate communication between patients and providers.

The integration of mental health services is also critical. Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension. Providing access to mental health support can help patients manage their condition more effectively.

The current state of hypertension management in 28803 suggests a mixed picture. The physician-to-patient ratio presents a challenge, but there are dedicated practices that are implementing best practices. The adoption of telemedicine is growing, and there is an increasing awareness of the importance of mental health integration.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28803 and beyond, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the data-rich maps available through CartoChrome.