29482, Sullivans Island, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29482, Sullivans Island, South Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.60 percent of the residents in 29482 has some form of health insurance. 23.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.98 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 29482 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 456 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29482. An estimate of 10 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 516 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,439 health care providers accessible to residents in 29482, Sullivans Island, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Sullivans Island (ZIP Code 29482)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management in Sullivans Island, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29482) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score," evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on their capacity to address hypertension, and considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. This information, while not a definitive ranking, provides a valuable assessment of the local healthcare ecosystem's ability to serve residents managing or at risk of hypertension.

The fundamental building block of effective hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in Sullivans Island, while not readily available as a precise figure, is likely influenced by the broader Charleston County statistics. This means the area may experience fluctuations in access, particularly during peak seasons or due to the influx of seasonal residents. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, enabling more frequent check-ups and proactive management.

Within the primary care landscape, certain practices may stand out in their approach to hypertension care. These "standout practices" are defined by their proactive screening protocols, patient education programs, and commitment to evidence-based treatment guidelines. They might employ registered nurses or certified medical assistants specifically trained in hypertension management, conducting regular blood pressure checks, providing personalized lifestyle counseling, and offering medication management support. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, identify individuals at risk, and ensure timely interventions.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating the hypertension score. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible avenue for patients to receive care, particularly for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, serving patients who may face geographical barriers or have limited mobility. The availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and online educational resources can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and contribute to better blood pressure control.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but plays a significant role in hypertension management. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder treatment adherence. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or medication management, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that influence their overall well-being and their ability to manage their condition effectively.

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" requires assessing the availability of these integrated services. The score would consider factors such as the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients, the average wait time for appointments, the presence of specialized hypertension management programs, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the integration of mental health services. The higher the score, the more comprehensive and accessible the hypertension care available in the area.

Further analysis would involve examining the specific practices within ZIP Code 29482. This would entail identifying the practices, evaluating their websites and patient reviews, and potentially conducting interviews with healthcare providers. The goal is to determine which practices are actively implementing best practices in hypertension management, offering innovative services, and demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

The availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is also an important factor. Easy access to medication refills is essential for maintaining adherence to treatment plans. Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies to streamline the prescription process and offer medication counseling can further improve patient outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" is dynamic and requires ongoing evaluation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment guidelines, and patient needs emerging. Regular assessments are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of Sullivans Island have access to the best possible hypertension care. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health services.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Sullivans Island would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the accessibility of pharmacies. A higher score would indicate a more robust and patient-centered approach to hypertension management, while a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

Ultimately, understanding the "Hypertension Score" for Sullivans Island requires a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare resources available. This involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, the adoption of innovative practice models, the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, and the accessibility of pharmacies. This analysis is a starting point for understanding the local healthcare landscape and identifying opportunities to improve the management of hypertension for residents of Sullivans Island.

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