28804, Asheville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 28804 has some form of health insurance. 34.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.58 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 28804 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,341 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28804. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,756 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,857 health care providers accessible to residents in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28804)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Asheville's 28804 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering factors like physician availability, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of mental health support, all crucial components in effective hypertension management. This assessment will highlight strengths and weaknesses, painting a picture of the current state and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of any effective hypertension management program rests on the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio within 28804, and indeed Buncombe County as a whole, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the general trend is vital. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a larger patient population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially compromised preventative care, including hypertension screening and management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive and individualized care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and local healthcare networks, would be consulted to determine the current ratio and assess its impact on patient access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is equally important. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Do these concentrations correlate with socioeconomic factors or areas with higher rates of hypertension? Analyzing this spatial distribution is key to identifying potential healthcare deserts and understanding disparities in access. This analysis would involve mapping physician locations and cross-referencing them with demographic data to reveal any significant patterns.

Several primary care practices within 28804 likely stand out in their approach to hypertension management. Identifying these 'standout practices' necessitates a review of their internal protocols, patient outcomes, and the technologies they employ. Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, would be prioritized. This includes consistent blood pressure monitoring, patient education programs, and the proactive use of medication when appropriate. Furthermore, practices that have implemented robust patient portals, allowing for easy communication and access to medical records, would receive positive consideration.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in this analysis. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in hypertension management, including remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, especially those offering remote patient monitoring programs, would be viewed favorably. These programs allow physicians to track patient blood pressure readings remotely, intervene proactively if necessary, and provide timely adjustments to medication or lifestyle recommendations. The availability of telemedicine can also expand access to care for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and contribute to poor adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 28804 area is a crucial component of this 'Hypertension Score' assessment. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling into their primary care services would receive higher marks. Furthermore, collaborations between primary care practices and mental health providers, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care, would be highly beneficial.

The integration of technology extends beyond telemedicine. Electronic health records (EHRs) play a vital role in hypertension management. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including features like automated blood pressure alerts, medication reconciliation tools, and patient reminders, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The ability to track patient data over time, identify trends, and personalize treatment plans is greatly enhanced by robust EHR systems. The use of patient-facing apps, providing educational resources, medication reminders, and the ability to track blood pressure readings, would also contribute positively to the score.

Another critical consideration is the availability of resources for patient education and support. Practices that offer educational materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, are essential. Group classes, support groups, and access to registered dietitians can empower patients to take an active role in managing their hypertension. Practices that actively engage patients in shared decision-making, involving them in the development of their treatment plans, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

The 'Hypertension Score' would ultimately be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. It would not be a single number, but rather a nuanced assessment, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. The score would be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might account for a certain percentage, while telemedicine adoption and mental health integration would each contribute a smaller percentage. The specifics of the weighting would depend on the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal hypertension management.

This analysis of 28804 would also consider the presence of community resources. Access to affordable healthy food options, safe places for exercise, and community health programs that focus on hypertension prevention and management would all contribute to a positive score. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is crucial in creating a supportive environment for patients with hypertension.

Finally, the 'Hypertension Score' would be a dynamic measure. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and new technologies, treatments, and best practices are emerging. The score would need to be updated regularly to reflect these changes and ensure its continued relevance. The goal is to provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, facilitating informed decision-making and promoting improved hypertension management within the Asheville community.

For a visually compelling and interactive representation of this data, including physician locations, access to resources, and demographic information, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps.