29479, Saint Stephen, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29479, Saint Stephen, South Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.05 percent of the residents in 29479 has some form of health insurance. 47.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.63 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 29479 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,619 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29479. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,097 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 400 health care providers accessible to residents in 29479, Saint Stephen, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: 29479 & Saint Stephen Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 29479, encompassing the town of Saint Stephen, South Carolina. The focus is on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, crucial for addressing hypertension, a prevalent health concern. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, all factors contributing to a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score'.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Saint Stephen, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and limited opportunities for preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system, facilitating proactive interventions and consistent monitoring, vital for controlling hypertension. Publicly available data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau will be used to estimate this ratio, providing a baseline understanding of access.

Within Saint Stephen, identifying standout primary care practices is paramount. These practices often demonstrate superior performance in hypertension management through a combination of factors. These might include adherence to established clinical guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. Practices that employ certified hypertension specialists or have dedicated staff trained in blood pressure management are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in patient education, empowering individuals to understand their condition and take ownership of their health, are also considered high-performing. We would investigate practices’ use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient data, identifying trends, and facilitating efficient communication between providers.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly significant role in hypertension care, especially in rural areas like Saint Stephen. Telemedicine allows patients to receive consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring from the comfort of their homes. This can reduce the burden of travel, improve access to specialists, and increase patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote blood pressure monitoring, are likely to have a higher 'Hypertension Score'. The analysis will investigate the availability of these services and the specific technologies utilized, such as remote blood pressure cuffs and secure video conferencing platforms.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is essential for comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, have referral pathways to mental health professionals, or provide resources for stress management and coping mechanisms are better equipped to address the multifaceted needs of patients. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources and the extent to which mental health is integrated into the overall care plan for hypertension patients.

Assessing the availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is also important. Easy access to medication refills is crucial for maintaining consistent treatment. The analysis will consider the number of pharmacies, their operating hours, and their proximity to primary care practices. This logistical aspect significantly impacts patient adherence to medication regimens.

The 'Hypertension Score' will be a composite measure, reflecting the performance of primary care providers and the availability of supportive resources. It will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, adherence to clinical guidelines, telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health services, and pharmacy access. The score will provide a nuanced understanding of the quality of hypertension care within the 29479 ZIP code.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population served by these primary care providers. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the challenges faced in managing the condition. Understanding the specific needs of the community is crucial for tailoring interventions and improving outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis will explore the availability of community resources that support hypertension management. This includes programs that promote healthy eating, physical activity, and smoking cessation. Collaboration between primary care providers and community organizations can enhance patient education and support, leading to better health outcomes.

In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis will provide a detailed assessment of the hypertension care landscape in Saint Stephen, South Carolina (ZIP code 29479). The 'Hypertension Score' will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement. By understanding the current state of hypertension management, we can work towards creating a healthier community.

Want to visualize the data and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in the area? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain deeper insights and visualize the critical elements that impact hypertension management in Saint Stephen and beyond.