29653, Hodges, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29653, Hodges, South Carolina is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.57 percent of the residents in 29653 has some form of health insurance. 48.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.83 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 29653 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 673 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29653. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,594 health care providers accessible to residents in 29653, Hodges, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Hodges, SC (ZIP Code 29653)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 29653, encompassing the town of Hodges, South Carolina. It assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, focusing on factors relevant to effective hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice approaches, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and its capacity to address the significant public health challenge of hypertension.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Hodges, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require continuous data collection, we can infer certain aspects. The size and demographics of Hodges, a small town, suggest that the concentration of primary care physicians might be lower compared to more urban areas. This potentially leads to longer wait times for appointments and reduced patient access, which could hinder timely diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive hypertension management. This includes practices that prioritize regular blood pressure screenings, implement standardized protocols for diagnosis and treatment, and actively engage patients in their care. Practices that have embraced electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively for population health management, such as identifying patients at risk and tracking their progress, are particularly noteworthy. The implementation of patient portals and communication tools can also enhance patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. In the context of Hodges, telemedicine can mitigate the challenges posed by limited access to in-person care. Telemedicine allows physicians to remotely monitor patients' blood pressure, adjust medications, and provide education and support. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, however, is not uniform across all practices. Factors such as physician comfort with technology, patient access to reliable internet connectivity, and reimbursement policies influence the extent of telemedicine integration.

The intricate relationship between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and complicate treatment. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial. Practices that integrate behavioral health services, either through on-site therapists or established referral networks, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of patients with hypertension. This integrated approach can improve treatment outcomes and enhance overall patient well-being.

Assessing the quality of care requires evaluating the specific practices within ZIP code 29653. This involves examining their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, their use of patient education materials, and their commitment to continuous quality improvement. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those sponsored by professional organizations or health systems, demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care.

The success of hypertension management also depends on patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that empower patients to take an active role in their care, through education, self-monitoring tools, and regular communication, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Patient education should cover lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and the importance of regular follow-up appointments.

Furthermore, the local healthcare ecosystem involves collaboration among various stakeholders. Effective hypertension management requires coordination between primary care physicians, specialists (such as cardiologists and nephrologists), pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Strong referral networks and communication channels facilitate seamless care transitions and ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of expertise.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. Factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food can influence a patient's ability to manage their condition. Practices that are aware of these social determinants of health and address them through community outreach programs or partnerships with social service agencies are better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

In conclusion, the hypertension management landscape in Hodges, SC (ZIP Code 29653) is shaped by the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. Assessing the specific practices in the area requires a detailed examination of their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their patient engagement strategies, and their collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Understanding these factors is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Hodges have access to the best possible care for managing hypertension.

For a more detailed and geographically-specific analysis of the healthcare resources available in Hodges, SC, and surrounding areas, including the precise locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.