29010, Bishopville, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29010, Bishopville, South Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.79 percent of the residents in 29010 has some form of health insurance. 43.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.58 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 29010 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,547 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29010. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,003 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 416 health care providers accessible to residents in 29010, Bishopville, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Bishopville, SC (ZIP Code 29010)

Assessing the quality of asthma care and primary care availability in Bishopville, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29010) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, termed an "Asthma Score," considers several key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician density, practice characteristics, telehealth integration, and the availability of mental health support. We'll delve into these areas to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic region.

The foundation of quality asthma care lies in accessible and qualified medical professionals. In Bishopville, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into the overall number of PCPs practicing within the 29010 ZIP code. However, this data alone doesn't paint the complete picture. It is essential to consider the specific specialties of these physicians, their experience in treating asthma, and their patient load.

Furthermore, the presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is crucial. The closer the proximity to a pulmonologist, the better for asthma patients, especially those with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The "Asthma Score" would need to reflect the distance to the nearest pulmonology practice and the accessibility of appointments.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves significantly impact the quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management, such as implementing standardized asthma action plans, providing patient education, and regularly reviewing medication regimens, would score higher. These practices often have dedicated staff trained in asthma management, such as certified asthma educators or respiratory therapists. They also demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma control, including regular follow-up appointments and monitoring of lung function.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in Bishopville is a critical factor to consider. Practices offering telehealth consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. It can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, allowing for early intervention and improved asthma control.

Asthma often coexists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care strategy. The "Asthma Score" would need to assess the proximity to mental health providers, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, and the availability of support groups or educational programs related to asthma and mental health. Practices that actively screen for mental health conditions and offer referrals to appropriate services would receive a higher score.

Determining standout practices within the 29010 ZIP code requires an in-depth analysis. This would involve evaluating individual practices based on the criteria outlined above. Practices with a high score would be those demonstrating a strong commitment to asthma management, patient education, and the integration of telehealth and mental health services. Such practices would likely have a positive impact on patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The "Asthma Score" would also incorporate information about hospital affiliations and the availability of emergency care services. The proximity to a hospital with a dedicated emergency department and respiratory care services is essential for managing asthma exacerbations. Furthermore, the hospital's track record in treating asthma patients, including readmission rates and patient satisfaction scores, would contribute to the overall score.

The analysis also considers the availability of asthma-specific resources within the community. This includes pharmacies that offer asthma medication counseling, support groups for asthma patients and their families, and educational programs about asthma triggers and management. The presence of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition and improve their overall quality of life.

Data collection for this analysis would involve several steps. Publicly available data sources, such as the HRSA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), would provide initial information on physician density, demographics, and healthcare utilization. Direct outreach to primary care practices and pharmacies in the 29010 ZIP code would be necessary to gather information on practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health services. Patient surveys and interviews could provide valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction with care.

The "Asthma Score" would be presented in a clear and concise format, with a numerical score reflecting the overall quality of asthma care in Bishopville. The score would be broken down into several sub-scores, each representing a key factor, such as physician availability, practice characteristics, telehealth integration, and mental health resources. This would allow for a more detailed understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the region.

The results of the "Asthma Score" analysis can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients. Healthcare providers can use the information to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance asthma care. Policymakers can use the data to allocate resources and support initiatives aimed at improving access to care and improving patient outcomes. Patients can use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for better asthma care in their community.

The "Asthma Score" is a dynamic tool that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new practices open, telemedicine technologies evolve, and mental health resources become more accessible, the score should be adjusted accordingly. This ongoing evaluation will ensure that the "Asthma Score" remains a valuable resource for improving asthma care in Bishopville and other communities.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bishopville, consider exploring the power of geospatial mapping. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other resources related to asthma care within the 29010 ZIP code. This will allow you to identify areas with limited access to care and to develop targeted strategies for improving asthma management in the community. **Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and visualize the data for yourself!**