31070, Pinehurst, Georgia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 31070, Pinehurst, Georgia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.58 percent of the residents in 31070 has some form of health insurance. 37.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.36 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 31070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 108 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 709 health care providers accessible to residents in 31070, Pinehurst, Georgia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pinehurst, GA (ZIP Code 31070)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of hypertension management capabilities within the Pinehurst, Georgia (ZIP Code 31070) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and related resources. The goal is to offer a "Hypertension Score" perspective, evaluating the local healthcare landscape's capacity to effectively address and manage hypertension within the community. The analysis is not a formal clinical assessment but rather a qualitative overview.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Pinehurst, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Researching the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with population data, allows for an initial estimation of this ratio. Further investigation into the acceptance of new patients by each practice is essential; a practice that is full or not accepting new patients diminishes the access to care for new residents or those seeking a different provider.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care provided is paramount. Identifying standout practices in Pinehurst requires examining patient reviews, assessing the qualifications and specializations of the physicians, and evaluating the range of services offered. Does the practice offer comprehensive hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, medication management, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise), and referrals to specialists when needed? Do they have dedicated staff or programs focused on chronic disease management, which often includes hypertension? Are they actively involved in community outreach or health education initiatives related to cardiovascular health? These factors contribute to a practice's overall "Hypertension Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural areas like Pinehurst. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, remote blood pressure monitoring, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering these services to their patients, are likely to score higher in our analysis. The ease of access to these virtual appointments, the quality of the technology used, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a significant factor. Does the practice screen patients for mental health concerns? Do they have on-site therapists or counselors, or strong referral networks to mental health professionals in the community? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can improve patient outcomes and contribute to better hypertension control.

Specific practices within Pinehurst would be evaluated based on these criteria. For instance, a practice that boasts a low physician-to-patient ratio, accepts new patients, has a strong track record of positive patient reviews, offers comprehensive hypertension management services, has embraced telemedicine for virtual consultations and remote monitoring, and has robust mental health referral pathways would receive a higher "Hypertension Score." Conversely, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited patient access, and a lack of telemedicine or mental health resources would likely receive a lower score.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a single number but a composite of various factors. It is important to understand that this analysis is based on available data and public information. The accuracy of the score depends on the quality and availability of information.

The assessment of primary care availability in Pinehurst involves several considerations. The geographical distribution of practices within the ZIP code is critical. Are the practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of the community? Transportation infrastructure, including public transportation options, also plays a role. Patients without reliable transportation may face significant barriers to accessing care. The presence of urgent care clinics or walk-in clinics can also impact the overall access to care, providing alternative options for patients with acute needs.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the primary care practices. Are there specific programs or services tailored to the needs of older adults, individuals with chronic diseases, or other vulnerable populations? Does the practice offer language services for non-English speakers? Cultural sensitivity and responsiveness are important factors in ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Pinehurst.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another indicator of a practice's commitment to quality care. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between providers, improve care coordination, and enable more efficient management of chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including features like patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers, are likely to be better equipped to manage hypertension effectively.

The analysis also examines the practice's involvement in quality improvement initiatives. Does the practice participate in programs aimed at improving hypertension control rates, such as the CDC's Million Hearts initiative? Do they regularly monitor their patients' blood pressure control rates and implement strategies to improve outcomes? Practices that are actively engaged in quality improvement efforts are more likely to provide high-quality care.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 31070 is a multi-faceted assessment. It considers physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other factors that contribute to effective hypertension management. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pinehurst, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and related data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps.