29585, Pawleys Island, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29585, Pawleys Island, South Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.79 percent of the residents in 29585 has some form of health insurance. 49.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.16 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 29585 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,004 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29585. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,508 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,319 health care providers accessible to residents in 29585, Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

The evaluation of hypertension management within ZIP code 29585, encompassing Pawleys Island, South Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in controlling and managing hypertension effectively. The goal is to assess the overall “Hypertension Score” for the area, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is access to primary care physicians. Pawleys Island, being a relatively small community, presents a unique challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient follow-up, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio generally suggests better access to care, allowing for more frequent check-ups, personalized treatment plans, and proactive management of the condition. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) are essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 29585 ZIP code. This data, however, needs to be interpreted cautiously, considering factors like physician specialization (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), patient demographics (e.g., age, prevalence of chronic conditions), and the potential for patients to seek care outside of the immediate ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves play a significant role. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours, including evenings or weekends, to accommodate busy schedules? Do they participate in value-based care models, incentivizing them to focus on preventive care and patient outcomes? The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as blood pressure monitoring, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and laboratory testing, streamlines the diagnostic and treatment process. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) are better equipped to manage patient data, track progress, and coordinate care with specialists. The presence of certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians within the practice can provide invaluable support for patients with hypertension, especially those with co-existing conditions like diabetes.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a crucial element in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with geographical limitations. Telemedicine offers several advantages in hypertension management. It allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, enabling physicians to track patient progress and adjust medications as needed. Virtual consultations reduce the need for in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses. Telemedicine can also improve access to specialists, such as cardiologists or nephrologists, who may not be readily available in Pawleys Island. The extent of telemedicine integration within local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), the technology used (e.g., secure video platforms, remote monitoring devices), and patient satisfaction with telemedicine experiences, is a key factor in the overall Hypertension Score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can elevate blood pressure and interfere with treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a vital component of comprehensive hypertension management. Does the area have access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices, allowing for convenient access to mental health professionals? The presence of support groups or educational programs focused on stress management, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications further enhances the ability of patients to manage their hypertension effectively. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan directly impacts the long-term success of hypertension control.

Identifying “standout practices” within the 29585 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves gathering information from multiple sources, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and data on quality metrics. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, actively engage in preventive measures, and achieve positive outcomes in hypertension control deserve recognition. Factors such as the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the availability of bilingual staff can contribute to a practice's success. While specific practice names cannot be mentioned in this analysis, the identification of these high-performing practices serves as a benchmark for other providers and provides valuable information for patients seeking care.

In conclusion, assessing the “Hypertension Score” for doctors in ZIP code 29585 and primary care availability in Pawleys Island is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear understanding of the local healthcare landscape, identify areas for improvement, and empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. The availability of accurate, up-to-date data is paramount for a thorough and meaningful assessment.
To visualize the healthcare landscape of Pawleys Island and access interactive maps that can help you find physicians and resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant information within the 29585 ZIP code.