29906, Beaufort, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29906, Beaufort, South Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 29906 has some form of health insurance. 33.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.72 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 29906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,700 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,719 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,527 health care providers accessible to residents in 29906, Beaufort, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Beaufort, SC (ZIP Code 29906)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within Beaufort, South Carolina, specifically focusing on the 29906 ZIP code. The assessment examines the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing hypertension control. This is a "Hypertension Score" analysis, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem’s capacity to effectively address this widespread condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Beaufort, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 29906 ZIP code and the surrounding areas is a critical starting point. Analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing, their patient load, and the ease with which new patients can secure appointments provides an initial gauge of accessibility. This analysis should consider the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents, aiming for a favorable ratio to ensure adequate patient access. The presence of urgent care clinics, walk-in facilities, and their integration with the primary care network also contribute to the overall accessibility score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a significant determinant of healthcare quality. A high patient-to-physician ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to shorter appointment times, delayed diagnoses, and less personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio allows for more in-depth patient evaluations, increased opportunities for patient education, and more proactive management of chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis needs to identify the average patient load for PCPs within the 29906 ZIP code and compare it to regional and national benchmarks.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Certain primary care practices within Beaufort may demonstrate exceptional performance in hypertension management. This could be reflected in lower average blood pressure readings among their patient population, higher rates of patient adherence to medication regimens, and proactive screening for complications. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, and foster strong patient-physician relationships. The analysis must examine patient satisfaction surveys, publicly available quality metrics, and physician reviews to identify and highlight these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in managing chronic conditions. The utilization of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. This analysis needs to assess the extent to which PCPs in the 29906 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine. This involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into their workflow.

The critical link between mental health and hypertension must be considered. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is, therefore, crucial. This analysis needs to investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within primary care practices or through referral networks. It should also assess the prevalence of integrated behavioral health programs that address both physical and mental health needs.

The effectiveness of hypertension management is also influenced by patient education and support programs. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques often achieve better outcomes. This analysis needs to evaluate the availability of patient education materials, group classes, and support groups within the 29906 ZIP code. The use of patient portals and online resources to facilitate patient engagement should also be considered.

Specific practices within the 29906 ZIP code should be evaluated based on their performance. This includes assessing their commitment to evidence-based guidelines, their use of EHRs, and their patient-centered approach to care. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide comprehensive education, and offer convenient access to services should be recognized for their contributions to hypertension management.

The analysis must consider the demographic characteristics of the 29906 ZIP code, including age, race, and socioeconomic status. These factors can influence the prevalence of hypertension and the barriers to accessing care. The analysis should identify any disparities in care and highlight practices that are actively working to address these inequities.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for the 29906 ZIP code will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local practices. This score should be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy comparison and identification of areas for improvement.

The final score will be a starting point. It should be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents about the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare system in managing hypertension. This information can then be used to develop strategies for improving access to care, enhancing the quality of care, and promoting better health outcomes for all residents of Beaufort.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Beaufort, including the location of primary care practices, their patient demographics, and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore the detailed mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.