29153, Sumter, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.89 percent of the residents in 29153 has some form of health insurance. 41.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.82 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 29153 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29153. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,742 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,739 health care providers accessible to residents in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29153 & Primary Care in Sumter

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within ZIP Code 29153, encompassing portions of Sumter, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on key indicators relevant to hypertension management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supporting mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Hypertension Score" perspective, evaluating the environment for patients managing or at risk of developing high blood pressure.

Sumter County, and specifically the area within 29153, faces certain challenges common to rural and underserved regions. One critical factor is physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area is likely below the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. This scarcity of PCPs directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely and consistent care, a crucial element in controlling hypertension.

Evaluating individual practices within 29153 reveals a spectrum of approaches. Some practices may stand out for their commitment to hypertension management. These practices might prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive blood pressure monitoring programs, and actively engage in medication management. They could also be distinguished by their utilization of evidence-based guidelines and their proactive approach to identifying and managing patients at risk. Conversely, other practices may face resource limitations, potentially hindering their ability to provide the same level of specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve hypertension management in this region. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive virtual consultations, and access medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, overcome geographical barriers, and provide more convenient care options. The degree of telemedicine integration, therefore, will significantly influence the "Hypertension Score" of a practice. Practices with robust telemedicine infrastructure and patient engagement are likely to demonstrate superior outcomes.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical component of hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore a crucial factor. Areas with limited access to mental health services may see poorer outcomes in hypertension control, as patients may struggle to manage the psychological factors that contribute to elevated blood pressure. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings, or readily available referrals to specialists, would positively influence the "Hypertension Score."

Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as cardiology clinics or diabetes education programs, is relevant. These resources can provide patients with specialized care and support, improving their ability to manage their condition effectively. The presence of these services, and their accessibility to patients within 29153, contributes to the overall "Hypertension Score."

The overall “Hypertension Score” for the 29153 area, therefore, is a composite of these various factors. It is not simply a matter of the number of physicians, but also of the quality of care, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health support, and the accessibility of specialized services. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio challenges, promoting telemedicine adoption, and increasing the availability of mental health services are critical steps towards improving the "Hypertension Score" and improving patient outcomes.

The analysis of specific practices requires further investigation. However, some general observations can be made. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and provide clear communication are likely to be favored by patients. Practices that actively monitor blood pressure, adjust medications as needed, and provide support for lifestyle modifications are also likely to demonstrate better outcomes. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly across providers also contribute to a higher "Hypertension Score."

The availability of support groups, community health programs, and educational resources also plays a role. These resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their health and provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to control their blood pressure. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility to patients within 29153, contributes to the overall "Hypertension Score."

Moreover, the affordability of healthcare is a significant factor. The cost of medications, doctor visits, and other healthcare services can be a barrier to care for many patients. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as Medicaid or other government programs, can help to improve access to care and improve patient outcomes. The affordability of healthcare services, and the availability of financial assistance programs, contributes to the overall "Hypertension Score."

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 29153 is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of numerous factors. Improving this score requires a multi-pronged approach, including addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, increasing the availability of mental health resources, and enhancing access to specialized services.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Sumter County and gain a deeper understanding of the factors impacting hypertension management, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Discover how these healthcare dynamics are mapped and analyzed with CartoChrome maps.