29588, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29588, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.35 percent of the residents in 29588 has some form of health insurance. 42.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.41 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 29588 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,708 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29588. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11,132 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,163 health care providers accessible to residents in 29588, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29588 & Primary Care in Myrtle Beach

Analyzing hypertension management within ZIP code 29588, encompassing parts of Myrtle Beach, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, from physician availability and practice characteristics to the integration of technology and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score isn't a single number but a holistic evaluation reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing or at risk of hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). ZIP code 29588, a popular tourist destination and rapidly growing residential area, faces unique challenges. The influx of seasonal residents and tourists can strain existing healthcare resources. Determining a precise physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves analyzing the number of practicing PCPs within the zip code, accounting for their specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and estimating the patient population they serve. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) can be used to estimate population density and demographics. Local hospital systems and healthcare networks, such as Grand Strand Health, often publish physician directories that can be cross-referenced with insurance provider networks to estimate patient loads. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, ideally reflecting a manageable caseload for each physician, is a positive indicator for hypertension management.

Standout practices within the zip code likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes not only prescribing medication but also providing patient education, lifestyle counseling, and regular follow-up appointments. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, manage medication adherence, and facilitate communication are likely to score higher. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Heart Association or the American Medical Association, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care and continuous improvement. These practices often have dedicated staff, such as nurses or medical assistants, who focus on hypertension management, providing patient education, and monitoring blood pressure readings.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Practices that offer telehealth options, including virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills, can significantly improve patient access to care and enhance adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, or those who find it difficult to take time off work for in-person appointments. The availability of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, integrated with the practice's EHR system, allows for proactive management and early intervention, potentially preventing complications. Assessing the availability and utilization of telemedicine services within the zip code is a key component of the Hypertension Score.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions, provide on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into hypertension management demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Beyond individual practice characteristics, the broader healthcare ecosystem within Myrtle Beach plays a role. The presence of local hospitals, specialized cardiology clinics, and pharmacies offering medication adherence programs contributes to a more robust and accessible healthcare environment. Hospitals that have dedicated cardiology units and offer educational programs for patients with hypertension are valuable resources. Collaboration between primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacists is essential for providing coordinated and comprehensive care. Access to affordable medications is also a critical factor. The availability of generic medications, prescription assistance programs, and pharmacy services that support medication adherence can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Evaluating the Hypertension Score requires gathering data from multiple sources. This includes reviewing physician directories, analyzing insurance provider networks, conducting patient surveys, and examining publicly available data on healthcare utilization and quality metrics. The assessment should consider the following key elements: physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics (e.g., EHR utilization, quality improvement initiatives), telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of supporting healthcare services. The final score should reflect a comprehensive evaluation of the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of hypertension management within ZIP code 29588.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Myrtle Beach and ZIP code 29588 reveals both opportunities and challenges. The area's rapid growth necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare planning, ensuring adequate access to primary care physicians and specialized services. The adoption of technology, including telemedicine and remote monitoring, is essential for improving patient access and outcomes. The integration of mental health services into hypertension management is crucial for addressing the holistic needs of patients. By focusing on these key areas, healthcare providers and policymakers can work together to improve the Hypertension Score and create a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Myrtle Beach, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for understanding the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where access to care may be limited.