29904, Beaufort, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29904, Beaufort, South Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 29904 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 29904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 29904, Beaufort, South Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29904 & Primary Care in Beaufort, SC**

The health landscape of Beaufort, South Carolina, particularly within the 29904 ZIP code, presents a complex interplay of factors influencing hypertension management. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the local capacity to address this significant public health concern.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and quality primary care. In Beaufort, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio within 29904 and the broader Beaufort area is a key metric. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per patient) generally indicates reduced access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, less frequent monitoring, and poorer control of hypertension. This ratio needs to be compared to state and national averages to understand the relative position of Beaufort. Are there enough PCPs to serve the population effectively?

Standout practices within the 29904 ZIP code and the broader Beaufort area are crucial to identify. These practices might demonstrate superior hypertension management through various means. This could include a high percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control, proactive patient education programs, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for treatment. Furthermore, examining the patient demographics served by these practices can reveal whether they are effectively reaching vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, those with limited financial resources, or individuals from underserved communities, who often bear a disproportionate burden of hypertension.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Beaufort is a significant factor in our 'Hypertension Score' assessment. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms can enhance patient access, improve adherence to treatment plans, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the patient population served, needs to be carefully examined. Are patients able to easily connect with their doctors virtually? Are they using these services?

The intricate link between mental health and hypertension cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a crucial aspect of effective hypertension management. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and coordinating care between primary care physicians and mental health specialists.

Specific practices in the 29904 ZIP code and Beaufort may exhibit unique strengths and weaknesses in hypertension management. One practice might excel in patient education, providing detailed information on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques. Another practice might have a robust electronic health record system that allows for efficient tracking of patient data, automated reminders for appointments and medication refills, and the ability to generate personalized reports on blood pressure control. Some practices may have a strong focus on preventative care, offering regular screenings for hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors.

The 'Hypertension Score' for each practice would ideally be calculated based on a weighted average of these factors. The weighting assigned to each factor should reflect its relative importance in achieving optimal hypertension control. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control might carry a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine services. The score would provide a clear and concise assessment of each practice's performance in hypertension management, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and helping healthcare providers identify areas for improvement.

Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis would consider the socioeconomic characteristics of the population served by each practice. Factors such as income levels, education levels, and access to healthy food options can significantly influence blood pressure control. Practices that are located in areas with high rates of poverty or food insecurity may face greater challenges in managing hypertension. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving health outcomes.

The availability of specialty care, such as cardiology and nephrology, is another factor to consider. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to specialists for further evaluation and treatment. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists can impact the quality of care and the timeliness of interventions. The presence of local hospitals with comprehensive cardiovascular services is also a positive factor.

In conclusion, the 'Hypertension Score' analysis for doctors in ZIP code 29904 and primary care availability in Beaufort, SC, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the evaluation of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the local capacity to address hypertension and guide efforts to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the data, including maps of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to healthcare resources, visit CartoChrome maps.