29832, Johnston, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29832, Johnston, South Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.65 percent of the residents in 29832 has some form of health insurance. 41.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.03 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 29832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29832. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 974 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 971 health care providers accessible to residents in 29832, Johnston, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29832 & Primary Care in Johnston

Analyzing hypertension management within ZIP Code 29832, encompassing the town of Johnston, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the effectiveness of hypertension control. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Johnston, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of residents to receive regular check-ups, screenings, and ongoing management of their condition. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where fewer patients are vying for the attention of each physician, is generally associated with better health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially compromised patient care. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 29832 is essential for a baseline understanding of access. This requires data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are practices in Johnston equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment protocols? Do they adhere to the most current guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology? Assessing these aspects requires examining the practices themselves. This can involve analyzing online reviews, patient testimonials (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially, if available, data on quality metrics such as the percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure.

Identifying standout practices within Johnston is a key element of this analysis. Some practices may excel in specific areas, such as patient education, preventative care, or the utilization of technology. These "best-practice" examples can serve as models for other providers in the area. For instance, a practice with a robust patient education program, offering classes or individual counseling on lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, would likely receive a higher score. Another practice might stand out for its proactive approach to screening, identifying and treating pre-hypertension early on.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive virtual consultations, and access educational resources. In Johnston, the extent to which primary care practices have embraced telemedicine is a crucial factor. Practices offering virtual appointments, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals will likely receive a higher score. Conversely, practices that lag in telemedicine adoption may face challenges in providing convenient and accessible care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.

The link between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is vital for comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This could include access to therapists, psychiatrists, or support groups. Practices lacking these resources may need to improve their ability to identify and address the mental health needs of their hypertensive patients.

The overall 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP Code 29832 will be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will contribute a significant portion of the score, with lower ratios (indicating better access) leading to higher scores. The quality of primary care, as assessed through practice reviews and adherence to guidelines, will also be a key factor. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources will further influence the score, with practices demonstrating strong performance in these areas receiving higher marks.

The final 'Hypertension Score' will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Johnston. It can serve as a benchmark for improvement, highlighting areas where the community excels and areas where further investment and innovation are needed. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to improve the health and well-being of residents in ZIP Code 29832.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient outcomes, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you identify areas of high and low access to care, visualize physician density, and map the locations of practices offering telemedicine and mental health services. This visual approach can provide powerful insights and help you tailor your efforts to improve hypertension management in Johnston.