39851, Fort Gaines, Georgia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 39851, Fort Gaines, Georgia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.44 percent of the residents in 39851 has some form of health insurance. 46.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.39 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 39851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 382 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39851. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 84 health care providers accessible to residents in 39851, Fort Gaines, Georgia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Fort Gaines, GA (ZIP Code 39851)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the overall landscape of hypertension management within Fort Gaines, Georgia (ZIP Code 39851). We aim to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in Fort Gaines is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, the overall availability of primary care physicians in rural areas like this is often a challenge. National averages for physician density are not necessarily reflected here. The score will be impacted by the number of practicing primary care physicians accepting new patients within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that residents typically access. Factors such as the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers, which often serve a larger patient population, will be considered.

Analyzing the practices themselves is crucial. Are the practices independently owned, part of larger healthcare systems, or affiliated with hospitals? Larger healthcare systems may offer more resources, including specialized clinics and support services. We will examine the practices' commitment to evidence-based hypertension management. This includes the use of standardized protocols, regular blood pressure monitoring, and patient education materials. Does the practice have a dedicated nurse or medical assistant for chronic disease management? This can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element of the "Hypertension Score." Telemedicine offers a valuable pathway for patients in rural areas to access care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and educational sessions. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis will assess the availability of telehealth services, including the types of platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, phone calls, remote monitoring), and the extent to which these services are integrated into the practice's workflow.

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress and mental health conditions can significantly impact blood pressure control. The presence of mental health resources within Fort Gaines is therefore a crucial factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis will evaluate the availability of these resources, their proximity to primary care practices, and the level of collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals. The score will be impacted by the degree of integration between physical and mental healthcare services.

Standout practices within the area will be identified. These practices will be assessed based on their commitment to comprehensive hypertension management. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, outcomes data (if available), and the implementation of innovative approaches to care. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, lifestyle modification, and medication management will be highlighted. We'll consider practices that have adopted patient portals for communication and medication refills, as this can improve patient engagement.

The "Hypertension Score" will also consider the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to pharmacies, diagnostic imaging services (for assessing potential complications), and cardiac rehabilitation programs. The proximity of these services to primary care practices and the ease with which patients can access them will be evaluated. The presence of community resources, such as support groups for individuals with hypertension or access to healthy food options, will also be considered.

The overall "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment in Fort Gaines for hypertension management. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with physician availability and the quality of primary care practices receiving the highest weight. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the current situation.

Further research will be needed to refine this analysis. This includes gathering data from local healthcare providers, patient surveys, and public health records. The goal is to provide a dynamic assessment that can be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This will ensure that individuals in Fort Gaines have access to the most current and relevant information.

This assessment is a starting point for understanding the complexities of hypertension management in Fort Gaines. It highlights the importance of access to primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of community resources. It is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to improve the overall healthcare environment for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Fort Gaines, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize and analyze geographic data, including healthcare access and availability. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources in your community.