29125, Pinewood, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29125, Pinewood, South Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.57 percent of the residents in 29125 has some form of health insurance. 47.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.54 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 29125 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 576 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29125. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 557 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,951 health care providers accessible to residents in 29125, Pinewood, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pinewood, SC (ZIP Code 29125)

Pinewood, South Carolina, a small community nestled in Sumter County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis delves into the asthma-related healthcare resources available within ZIP Code 29125, focusing on primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. We aim to provide a comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure for asthma management.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In Pinewood, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. This involves determining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary asthma treatment and management. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires up-to-date information from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the American Medical Association (AMA). Publicly available data, though often delayed, provides a baseline understanding.

Beyond the raw numbers, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more rural parts of Pinewood? Factors like transportation limitations, particularly for individuals with asthma who may experience breathing difficulties, can exacerbate these challenges. The proximity of primary care facilities to public transportation routes or accessible parking is also a consideration.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their specific approaches to asthma management. Do these practices offer comprehensive asthma education programs for patients and their families? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma diagnosis and treatment, such as those recommended by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Do they have dedicated staff, like certified asthma educators, to provide individualized support? Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer personalized care plans, and regularly review patient progress are more likely to achieve better asthma control outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the asthma score. The ability to access healthcare remotely can significantly improve asthma management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrate them seamlessly into their asthma care protocols are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The availability of telehealth services can also reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, minimizing exposure to potential triggers and infections.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital, yet often overlooked, aspect of asthma care. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. Practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This could include offering counseling services, support groups, or educational materials on managing stress and anxiety.

The asthma score for Pinewood, SC (29125) is not easily quantifiable without direct access to specific, real-time data. However, based on the factors discussed, we can infer a general assessment. If the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable, primary care practices are geographically accessible, and standout practices demonstrate a commitment to patient education and evidence-based treatment, the score would be higher. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources would further enhance the score. Conversely, a lower physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to primary care, a lack of telemedicine options, and a failure to address mental health concerns would result in a lower score.

To accurately assess the asthma score, a thorough data collection and analysis process is essential. This would involve gathering information on the number and location of PCPs, evaluating the services offered by each practice, assessing telemedicine capabilities, and determining the availability of mental health resources. Public health agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations play a crucial role in collecting and sharing this data.

The analysis of asthma care in Pinewood highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach. Improving access to primary care, promoting evidence-based treatment, embracing telemedicine, and addressing mental health needs are all essential for achieving optimal asthma control. The healthcare infrastructure within the community needs to be assessed with a focus on the impact on the asthma population. The quality of life for asthma patients in Pinewood is directly affected by the availability of these resources.

This analysis, while not providing a numerical score, offers a framework for understanding the complexities of asthma care in Pinewood, SC (29125). By considering these factors, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members can work together to improve the quality of life for individuals living with asthma.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pinewood, including the location of primary care practices, public transportation routes, and demographic data relevant to asthma prevalence, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping.

**Explore the CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain deeper insights into the healthcare resources available in Pinewood, SC (29125).**