29123, Pelion, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29123, Pelion, South Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.14 percent of the residents in 29123 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.14 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 29123 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,848 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29123. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 853 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,289 health care providers accessible to residents in 29123, Pelion, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pelion, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29123)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Pelion, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29123) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess physician resources, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support for asthma patients. This analysis, presented as an "Asthma Score," attempts to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the inherent complexities of healthcare delivery within a specific geographic area.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In Pelion, the precise ratio is difficult to ascertain without granular, real-time data. However, we can infer certain aspects. Given the rural nature of the area and the surrounding Lexington County, the physician density is likely lower than in more urban centers. This suggests a potential challenge in accessing timely appointments with primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists, who are crucial for asthma management. A lower physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Primary care availability is intrinsically linked to the overall health of the community. The presence of readily accessible PCPs is critical for the initial diagnosis of asthma, ongoing management, and the prevention of acute exacerbations. Pelion's primary care landscape needs careful examination. Are there enough practices accepting new patients? What are the average wait times for appointments? Are evening or weekend hours available to accommodate the needs of working families? The answers to these questions directly impact the Asthma Score. Limited access to primary care, coupled with a potential shortage of specialists, would negatively impact the overall score, indicating a higher risk for asthma patients.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 29123 is essential. These practices serve as benchmarks for quality care. We need to look for those that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through several factors. This includes the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, the use of patient education materials, and the availability of asthma action plans. Practices that actively monitor patients' asthma control, track exacerbation rates, and proactively adjust treatment plans based on individual needs deserve recognition. Practices that offer in-house spirometry testing or other diagnostic tools also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Pelion is a key factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups, medication refills, and symptom management can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of lung function and provide timely interventions, potentially preventing hospitalizations. The availability of telemedicine services, especially for asthma patients, would significantly improve the overall score.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and worsen overall health outcomes. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling services or access to mental health professionals, is therefore crucial. Practices that screen for mental health issues, provide referrals to mental health specialists, or offer integrated mental health services would significantly improve the Asthma Score. The presence of readily accessible mental health resources demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care.

The Asthma Score for Pelion (ZIP Code 29123) is not a static number. It's a reflection of the dynamic healthcare landscape and requires ongoing evaluation. The score would be lower if physician-to-patient ratios are unfavorable, primary care access is limited, and telemedicine and mental health resources are scarce. Conversely, a higher score would be earned by practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management, leveraging technology and integrating mental health support.

The final score would be a composite of these factors, weighted based on their relative importance to patient outcomes. Factors like the availability of specialized asthma education programs, the presence of certified asthma educators, and the integration of patient feedback mechanisms would also be considered. The goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of asthma care quality in Pelion.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pelion, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, offering insights into physician distribution, primary care availability, and other relevant factors. This powerful tool can help you identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape in Pelion and beyond.