29697, Williamston, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.53 percent of the residents in 29697 has some form of health insurance. 36.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.89 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 29697 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29697. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,149 health care providers accessible to residents in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Williamston, SC (ZIP Code 29697)

Williamston, South Carolina, nestled within the 29697 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and the management of hypertension, a significant public health concern. This analysis aims to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on factors crucial for hypertension control. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of Williamston's healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. A crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, the overall picture in Williamston and surrounding areas suggests a potential strain on primary care resources. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, shorter consultation durations, and potentially, less individualized care. This can hinder proactive hypertension screening, consistent medication management, and patient education, all critical for achieving optimal blood pressure control.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are healthcare providers demonstrating excellence in hypertension management. This includes practices with a proven track record of consistently achieving blood pressure control among their hypertensive patients. Key indicators would include the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure, the frequency of patient follow-up appointments, and the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Such practices often prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care through lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and regular self-monitoring. They may also employ dedicated staff, such as nurses or certified medical assistants, to provide specialized hypertension support.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient education significantly enhances access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and timely intervention, all contributing to improved hypertension outcomes. The "Hypertension Score" would consider the availability of telemedicine services, the user-friendliness of the platforms, and the integration of these technologies into the overall care workflow.

The interplay between hypertension and mental health is undeniable. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of effective hypertension management. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who can provide counseling, therapy, and medication management. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as co-located clinics or collaborative care models, further enhances accessibility and promotes a holistic approach to patient well-being. The "Hypertension Score" would evaluate the availability and integration of mental health services, as well as the level of collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers.

Williamston's "Hypertension Score" would also incorporate an assessment of community resources. This involves evaluating the availability of programs and initiatives that support healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes, nutrition education, and access to affordable healthy food options. These resources empower individuals to adopt lifestyle modifications, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and weight management, which are essential for preventing and managing hypertension. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can further enhance the effectiveness of these programs.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" would consider the socioeconomic factors that influence hypertension prevalence and management. This includes assessing the prevalence of poverty, the availability of health insurance, and the level of health literacy within the community. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care and achieving optimal hypertension outcomes for all residents of Williamston.

The "Hypertension Score" for Williamston, therefore, would be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these various factors. It would not be a single numerical value but a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare ecosystem. The assessment would identify areas for improvement, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, and promoting community-based programs that support healthy lifestyles. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Williamston, enabling stakeholders to develop targeted interventions and improve the management of hypertension within the community.

In conclusion, the effective management of hypertension in Williamston requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates readily accessible primary care, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the support of community-based resources. Addressing the social determinants of health is also critical for ensuring equitable access to care. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Williamston and identify opportunities to improve hypertension outcomes for all residents.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Williamston, SC (ZIP Code 29697), and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps and data visualizations that can help you analyze healthcare resources and make informed decisions.