29902, Beaufort, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29902, Beaufort, South Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.20 percent of the residents in 29902 has some form of health insurance. 31.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.24 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 29902 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,987 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29902. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,689 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,450 health care providers accessible to residents in 29902, Beaufort, South Carolina.

The analysis focuses on hypertension management capabilities within ZIP code 29902, Beaufort, South Carolina, evaluating primary care availability and related resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in addressing this significant public health concern.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a prevalent condition requiring diligent management. Effective control necessitates access to quality primary care physicians, readily available diagnostic tools, and supportive resources. This analysis considers these factors within the specified geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain access and potentially impact the quality of care. While precise numbers fluctuate, understanding the general availability of primary care providers is critical. Researching the number of active primary care physicians practicing within 29902, coupled with the estimated population of the area, provides a baseline. This data, obtained from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or professional medical directories, allows for a preliminary assessment of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? The location of clinics and hospitals within the ZIP code, and their proximity to residential areas, is an important factor. Public transportation options and the availability of parking also influence accessibility, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations.

Standout practices within 29902 are those demonstrating a commitment to hypertension management. This includes practices actively utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. Do they consistently measure blood pressure during routine visits? Are they employing lifestyle modification counseling, including dietary and exercise recommendations? Do they have readily available resources for patients, such as educational materials or referrals to nutritionists and exercise specialists? Practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data tracking and medication management are also highly desirable.

Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for medication refills, follow-up appointments, or remote blood pressure monitoring? Telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and potentially enhance medication adherence. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their hypertension management protocols deserve recognition.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community is a crucial component of holistic care. Are there readily accessible mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists, within 29902? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to these resources? Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can be particularly beneficial.

Specific practices within 29902 should be evaluated based on their adherence to these criteria. This involves gathering information through various means: reviewing practice websites, examining patient testimonials, and analyzing publicly available data. It may also involve contacting practices directly to inquire about their hypertension management protocols.

Primary care availability in Beaufort, beyond the confines of 29902, impacts the overall healthcare landscape. Patients may seek care outside their immediate ZIP code. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians across the broader Beaufort area, including the surrounding communities, is essential. This broader assessment should consider the same factors: physician-to-patient ratios, geographic distribution, and the availability of supportive resources.

The quality of care extends beyond the individual physician. The availability of diagnostic tools, such as 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Access to these tools, along with the availability of laboratory services for blood tests, is essential for effective hypertension management.

The integration of technology is another key aspect. Practices that leverage technology to improve patient care, such as patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers, are generally more efficient and patient-centered. The use of remote monitoring devices, such as home blood pressure cuffs that transmit readings directly to the physician, can improve medication adherence and facilitate proactive management.

Community resources also play a role. Are there local programs promoting healthy lifestyles, such as walking groups or cooking classes? Are there community health centers or free clinics that offer affordable care? These resources can supplement the efforts of primary care physicians and contribute to a healthier community.

Evaluating the performance of individual practices involves a multi-faceted approach. Patient satisfaction surveys, peer reviews, and publicly available performance data can provide valuable insights. The availability of these data, and the willingness of practices to share information, can indicate a commitment to transparency and quality improvement.

The analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors within 29902. The prevalence of hypertension often correlates with factors such as income, education, and access to healthy food options. Understanding these factors can help to identify disparities in care and inform strategies for addressing them.

This comprehensive evaluation, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic context, provides a nuanced understanding of hypertension management capabilities within 29902. The identification of standout practices and areas for improvement is vital for promoting better health outcomes.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, access to care, and socioeconomic factors, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and intuitive way to understand the healthcare landscape of Beaufort, South Carolina.