29920, Saint Helena Island, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29920, Saint Helena Island, South Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.48 percent of the residents in 29920 has some form of health insurance. 51.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.56 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 29920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,480 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,083 health care providers accessible to residents in 29920, Saint Helena Island, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Saint Helena Island, SC (ZIP Code 29920)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Saint Helena Island, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29920) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll examine physician availability, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the crucial aspect of mental health resources, all factors influencing a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" for this specific community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available to manage and treat hypertension effectively.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In 29920, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a challenge. National averages often don't reflect the realities of isolated communities. A low physician density can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and ultimately, poorer hypertension control. Researching the precise ratio for this ZIP code is paramount. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) would be essential to understand the true burden on existing primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are clinics or individual physicians demonstrating excellence in hypertension management. Criteria might include high patient adherence to treatment plans, low rates of uncontrolled hypertension, and proactive screening programs. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines, utilize electronic health records effectively, and offer patient education resources. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, further enhancing their performance. Investigating the specific practices within 29920, examining their patient outcomes, and understanding their approach to hypertension management would reveal the leaders in this area.

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve hypertension care, especially in underserved areas. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management via telehealth can bridge geographical barriers and increase patient access to care. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers in 29920 is crucial. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments? Do they offer remote monitoring programs? The presence or absence of these technologies significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The link between hypertension and mental health is well-established. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of effective hypertension management. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Assessing the availability of these resources within 29920 is essential. Are mental health services readily accessible? Are there collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health providers? A lack of mental health support can negatively impact the "Hypertension Score" by contributing to poor patient outcomes.

Further, we must consider the social determinants of health. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and safe housing can significantly influence hypertension prevalence and control. Understanding these factors within the 29920 community provides context for the healthcare resources. Are there community programs addressing food insecurity or promoting healthy lifestyles? Are there initiatives to improve access to affordable housing? These elements contribute to the overall health environment and ultimately affect the effectiveness of hypertension management efforts.

Data sources for this analysis would include publicly available information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HRSA, DHEC, and the South Carolina Medical Association. Patient reviews and testimonials could offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Direct contact with primary care providers in the area would be essential to gather firsthand information about their practices and the challenges they face.

The "Hypertension Score" for 29920 would be a composite metric, weighing the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a community with robust physician availability, standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, ample mental health resources, and a supportive social environment. A low score would suggest significant challenges in hypertension management, requiring targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

The analysis must also acknowledge the limitations. Data availability may be limited, and the "Hypertension Score" would be an approximation based on available information. Furthermore, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The findings would represent a snapshot in time, and ongoing monitoring is necessary to track progress and identify emerging needs.

Finally, the analysis should include recommendations for improvement. This could involve advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and implementing community-based programs to address social determinants of health. The goal is to create a healthier environment for residents of 29920.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of hypertension care in Saint Helena Island (29920) reveals both strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources are critical steps in improving patient outcomes. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the effectiveness of current efforts and identifying areas for improvement.

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