31406, Savannah, Georgia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 31406, Savannah, Georgia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.37 percent of the residents in 31406 has some form of health insurance. 31.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.29 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 31406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,416 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31406. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,224 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,785 health care providers accessible to residents in 31406, Savannah, Georgia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 31406 & Primary Care Availability in Savannah

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall quality of hypertension management within ZIP code 31406 in Savannah, Georgia, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider factors beyond the simple number of doctors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative practices, the integration of mental health resources, and the utilization of telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 31406, and indeed throughout Savannah, is a critical starting point. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per resident, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised hypertension management. Data from the Georgia Composite Medical Board, combined with population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, will be necessary to establish this ratio accurately. A concerningly high ratio would negatively impact the ‘Hypertension Score,’ signaling a potential access-to-care issue.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is crucial. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving underserved pockets? Examining geographic disparities in access to care is vital. This involves mapping the locations of practices and overlaying them with demographic data to identify potential healthcare deserts. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is a positive factor, as these often serve vulnerable populations and can improve the ‘Hypertension Score’ through their commitment to accessible care.

Standout practices within 31406 can significantly impact the overall score. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in hypertension management requires a review of several factors. This includes the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the proactive monitoring of blood pressure control. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively for data analysis and patient outreach would score higher. The adoption of patient portals, allowing patients to access their records, communicate with their physicians, and track their blood pressure readings, is a key indicator of patient-centered care and a positive influence on the ‘Hypertension Score.’

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the analysis. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for hypertension management would receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth services can also mitigate the impact of a high physician-to-patient ratio, expanding the reach of PCPs.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is increasingly recognized as essential for effective hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression are known contributors to elevated blood pressure. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists would positively influence the ‘Hypertension Score.’ The presence of behavioral health integration demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized resources for hypertension management within the ZIP code must be considered. This includes access to registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, and other healthcare professionals who can provide targeted support to patients. The presence of these resources, along with readily available educational materials on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, would enhance the ‘Hypertension Score.’

Evaluating the quality of care also involves examining patient outcomes. Data on blood pressure control rates, rates of complications (such as stroke and heart attack), and patient satisfaction levels would be crucial for a comprehensive assessment. This type of data is often difficult to obtain, but public health data, insurance claims data, and patient surveys can provide valuable insights. Practices that demonstrate superior patient outcomes would naturally contribute to a higher ‘Hypertension Score.’

In conclusion, the ‘Hypertension Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 31406 and the assessment of primary care availability in Savannah demands a thorough examination of various factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, geographic distribution of providers, the adoption of innovative practices, the integration of mental health resources, and the utilization of telemedicine. By analyzing these components, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area. This analysis highlights the importance of accessible, patient-centered care and the need for continuous improvement in hypertension management.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care indicators, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that allow for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Savannah and beyond.