29912, Coosawhatchie, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29912, Coosawhatchie, South Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 29912 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 29912 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 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29912. 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 1,601 health care providers accessible to residents in 29912, Coosawhatchie, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29912 & Primary Care in Coosawhatchie

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area, particularly concerning a prevalent condition like hypertension, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and capabilities of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 29912 (representing a defined geographic area) and the broader context of primary care resources in Coosawhatchie, South Carolina, with a specific focus on hypertension management. This analysis will produce a "Hypertension Score" assessment, reflecting the overall ability of the local healthcare system to effectively address and manage hypertension within the designated area.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is accessible and quality primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical initial indicator. In ZIP Code 29912, a detailed investigation is needed to determine the precise number of practicing primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. This number must be compared to the estimated population of the ZIP code. A low physician-to-patient ratio, for instance, 1:2000, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio, perhaps 1:800, indicates a potentially more accessible system. Data sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and publicly available physician directories would be instrumental in gathering this data.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped with modern diagnostic tools, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) devices, crucial for accurate hypertension diagnosis and management? Furthermore, the availability of on-site pharmacies or partnerships with local pharmacies can improve medication adherence, a key factor in hypertension control. The practices' commitment to patient education, including providing resources on lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, is also critical.

A "Hypertension Score" would also evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in hypertension management. It allows for remote blood pressure monitoring, medication adjustments, and follow-up consultations, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices actively using telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations, and utilizing remote monitoring technologies would receive a higher score. The ease of access to these virtual services, including user-friendly platforms and technical support for patients, is also a factor.

Mental health is inextricably linked to hypertension. Chronic stress and anxiety can significantly elevate blood pressure, making effective mental health support crucial for successful hypertension management. The "Hypertension Score" must assess the availability of mental health resources within the community and the primary care practices themselves. Do the practices have on-site behavioral health specialists? Do they offer referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists? Are there readily available resources for stress management, such as mindfulness programs or support groups? The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting is a significant indicator of a well-rounded and effective healthcare system.

Analyzing the broader primary care landscape in Coosawhatchie provides context. While ZIP Code 29912 represents a specific geographic area, the overall availability of primary care resources in the surrounding region impacts the healthcare options available to residents. This involves assessing the presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and other healthcare facilities in Coosawhatchie. The proximity of these facilities to ZIP Code 29912 residents and the services they offer, including specialized care for hypertension-related complications, are significant factors.

The "Hypertension Score" would consider the presence of community health programs and initiatives focused on hypertension prevention and management. Are there local health fairs or educational campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles? Are there programs offering free or low-cost blood pressure screenings? The involvement of local healthcare providers in community outreach efforts demonstrates a commitment to proactive healthcare and improves the overall "Hypertension Score."

Data sources for this analysis would include public health records, physician directories, practice websites, and patient reviews. The analysis would also consider the availability of interpreters for non-English speaking patients, ensuring equitable access to care for all residents. The "Hypertension Score" would be a composite score, weighted based on the importance of each factor. Factors like physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of community programs would all contribute to the final score.

The final "Hypertension Score" would provide a valuable snapshot of the local healthcare system's capacity to manage hypertension effectively. A higher score would indicate a more accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered system, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents to identify strengths and weaknesses and to develop strategies for improving hypertension care within ZIP Code 29912 and the broader Coosawhatchie area.

The creation of this score would also identify standout practices. These practices would be those that excel in multiple areas, such as high physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and community outreach. These practices could serve as models for other practices, demonstrating best practices in hypertension management.

This analysis is just a starting point. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular monitoring and updates are essential to ensure the "Hypertension Score" remains relevant and reflects the current state of healthcare within the community. Further research could include patient surveys to gauge satisfaction with care and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and visually compelling way to explore the data, identify healthcare deserts, and understand the spatial relationships between patients and providers. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize your healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of your community's healthcare landscape.