29440, Georgetown, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29440, Georgetown, South Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.72 percent of the residents in 29440 has some form of health insurance. 49.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.76 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 29440 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,208 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29440. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 642 health care providers accessible to residents in 29440, Georgetown, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Georgetown, SC (ZIP Code 29440)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, is crucial for understanding community health. This analysis focuses on primary care availability and related resources within Georgetown, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29440), assessing factors influencing a "Hypertension Score" for the area. This score, though not a formal metric, represents an overall assessment of the resources and conditions supporting effective hypertension control.

Georgetown, a coastal community, faces unique challenges. Its demographics, including an aging population and potential disparities in socioeconomic status, can significantly impact health outcomes, especially regarding chronic conditions like hypertension. Primary care physicians are the cornerstone of hypertension management, providing regular checkups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment adjustments. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 29440 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can offer insights. If the ratio is unfavorable, it negatively impacts the Hypertension Score, suggesting potential access barriers.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of primary care providers matters. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient practices accepting new patients, or are waitlists common? The geographic accessibility of primary care, including transportation considerations for patients with limited mobility, is a crucial factor.

Standout practices contribute positively to the Hypertension Score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in several areas. They might offer extended hours or weekend appointments, making it easier for patients to access care. They could have dedicated staff, like nurses or medical assistants, focused on hypertension management, providing patient education, and monitoring blood pressure readings. Some may utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for better coordination of care and medication management. Practices actively involved in community outreach, providing health screenings or educational programs, would also enhance their score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor influencing the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve hypertension management, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows for regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling without requiring patients to travel to the clinic. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for blood pressure monitoring and medication refills, would receive a higher score. The availability of patient-friendly technology, such as blood pressure cuffs that transmit readings directly to the physician, further enhances the score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community directly impacts the Hypertension Score. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for easy referrals and coordinated care, is highly beneficial. Educational programs addressing stress management and mindfulness techniques also contribute positively to the score.

The availability of ancillary services also influences the Hypertension Score. Access to diagnostic testing, such as blood work to monitor cholesterol and kidney function, is essential for comprehensive hypertension management. The presence of pharmacies with knowledgeable pharmacists who can counsel patients on medication adherence and potential side effects is also important. Support groups or educational programs for patients with hypertension can provide valuable peer support and enhance self-management skills.

The overall community environment also plays a role. Access to healthy food options, safe places for physical activity, and community-based health initiatives contribute to the Hypertension Score. Communities that promote healthy lifestyles, such as through farmers' markets, walking trails, and public health campaigns, create an environment that supports effective hypertension control.

The level of health insurance coverage within the community is another crucial factor. Uninsured or underinsured individuals may face significant barriers to accessing primary care and essential medications, negatively impacting their ability to manage hypertension. The availability of affordable healthcare options, including government programs and community health clinics, can improve the Hypertension Score by ensuring that more residents have access to necessary care.

In conclusion, evaluating the Hypertension Score for Georgetown (29440) requires a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, ancillary services, community environment, and insurance coverage all play a role. A high score indicates a community well-equipped to support effective hypertension management, while a low score highlights areas needing improvement.

For a visual representation of these factors, including the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed, data-driven understanding of healthcare access and quality within Georgetown, allowing for a more informed assessment of the community's ability to manage hypertension.