29816, Bath, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29816, Bath, South Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.99 percent of the residents in 29816 has some form of health insurance. 46.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 29.97 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 29816 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 147 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29816. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 29816, Bath, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Bath, SC (ZIP Code 29816)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Bath, South Carolina (ZIP code 29816) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis evaluates the available primary care resources, focusing on their capacity to address hypertension, alongside factors that impact patient outcomes, such as physician-to-patient ratios, adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced "Hypertension Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of effective hypertension management is readily available primary care. Within Bath, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts patient access to screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing treatment. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised continuity of care. Conversely, a lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests better access, allowing for more proactive management of hypertension. Precise physician-to-patient ratios for 29816 require data collection from state licensing boards, insurance providers, and local practices. Without this granular data, a precise score is difficult. However, we can infer based on the rural nature of Bath and its proximity to larger urban centers like Aiken, that access may be limited.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive hypertension care. This includes practices that actively screen patients for hypertension, provide individualized treatment plans (including lifestyle modifications and medication management), and offer regular follow-up appointments. These practices may also employ certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians, and other allied health professionals who can provide specialized support. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and coordination of care is another key indicator of a high-performing practice. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct inquiries to local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Bath. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving medication adherence. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance patient care. The "Hypertension Score" should reflect the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, considering factors like the availability of virtual appointment scheduling, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms with EHRs.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension management. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality of hypertension care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better positioned to provide holistic care. The "Hypertension Score" should consider the availability of mental health services and the extent to which local practices address the mental health needs of their patients.

Furthermore, the "Hypertension Score" should incorporate data on the prevalence of hypertension within the 29816 ZIP code. This data can be obtained from public health agencies, such as the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Understanding the prevalence of hypertension allows for a more accurate assessment of the community's needs and the effectiveness of local healthcare providers in managing the condition. The score should also reflect the availability of community resources, such as educational programs, support groups, and access to healthy food options.

Assessing the quality of care requires a review of patient outcomes. This includes metrics such as blood pressure control rates, rates of complications (e.g., heart attack, stroke), and patient satisfaction. However, obtaining this data can be challenging due to privacy regulations and data limitations. Nevertheless, any available data on patient outcomes should be incorporated into the "Hypertension Score."

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Bath, SC (ZIP code 29816) is a complex assessment that requires a thorough evaluation of multiple factors. While a precise score is difficult to calculate without access to specific local data, the analysis should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the prevalence of hypertension within the community. The score should also reflect the availability of community resources and, if possible, patient outcomes. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Bath, highlighting areas of strength and weakness in hypertension management and identifying opportunities for improvement. This analysis is a starting point for improving healthcare access and quality.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Bath, SC (ZIP code 29816), and to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and to target resources where they are most needed.