29646, Greenwood, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29646, Greenwood, South Carolina is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.25 percent of the residents in 29646 has some form of health insurance. 44.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.66 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 29646 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,863 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29646. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,536 health care providers accessible to residents in 29646, Greenwood, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Greenwood, SC (ZIP Code 29646)

Analyzing hypertension management within Greenwood, South Carolina (ZIP code 29646) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to assess the quality of care available, focusing on key indicators that impact patient outcomes. We will evaluate physician availability, the presence of innovative practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all crucial components in effectively managing hypertension. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental starting point. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP code 29646 and comparing this to the local population is essential. A low physician-to-patient ratio can strain resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less frequent monitoring of blood pressure. Conversely, a higher ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more proactive management and early intervention strategies. Publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) would be invaluable in establishing these ratios.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is equally important. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) present that provide care to vulnerable populations, including those at higher risk for hypertension? This geographic analysis is critical in identifying potential health disparities and ensuring equitable access to care.

Evaluating standout practices requires delving into the specific approaches employed by local providers. Practices excelling in hypertension management often implement evidence-based guidelines, such as those published by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). This includes the consistent use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) to diagnose and manage “white coat hypertension” and “masked hypertension.” They may also have dedicated programs focused on patient education, lifestyle modification, and medication adherence.

Furthermore, these practices may utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for streamlined data collection, analysis, and patient communication. Features like automated reminders for medication refills and follow-up appointments can significantly improve patient compliance. The presence of certified diabetes educators (CDEs) or registered dietitians (RDs) within a practice can also be a strong indicator of a comprehensive approach to hypertension management, as these professionals can provide specialized guidance on diet and lifestyle changes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas like Greenwood. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be better positioned to manage hypertension effectively, particularly in the context of the ongoing healthcare workforce shortage. The extent of telemedicine adoption would be assessed by examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the existing EHR systems.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in hypertension management. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly impact blood pressure levels, making it essential to address the psychological well-being of patients. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the Greenwood area is therefore critical. This includes identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) available.

Furthermore, understanding the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is essential. Do PCPs have access to behavioral health specialists who can provide on-site consultations or referrals? Are there any collaborative care models in place that facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and mental health providers? The presence of these integrated services can significantly improve patient outcomes by addressing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Specific initiatives within the community also warrant examination. Are there any community-based programs focused on hypertension awareness, prevention, and management? This could include health fairs, educational workshops, or support groups. The involvement of local hospitals, pharmacies, and community organizations in these initiatives can further enhance the reach and effectiveness of hypertension management efforts.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of hypertension management within ZIP code 29646 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, the practices of standout providers, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of care, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the use of technology, and the presence of community-based programs. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Greenwood, South Carolina.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to healthcare resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you understand the healthcare landscape in Greenwood and identify areas for improvement.