29148, Summerton, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29148, Summerton, South Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.79 percent of the residents in 29148 has some form of health insurance. 62.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.13 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 29148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 750 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29148. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 537 health care providers accessible to residents in 29148, Summerton, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Summerton, SC (ZIP Code 29148)

Summerton, South Carolina, nestled in Clarendon County, presents a unique landscape for asthma management. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, alongside specific considerations for asthma care within ZIP code 29148, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, ultimately culminating in a call to action for the utilization of advanced mapping tools.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and qualified primary care. In Summerton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area often translates to a lower density of physicians compared to more urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources, impacting the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management of their asthma. This scarcity necessitates a careful evaluation of existing primary care practices.

Identifying standout practices involves examining several key elements. These include the qualifications of the physicians, particularly their experience and specialization in respiratory illnesses. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, such as regular asthma screenings and patient education programs, deserve recognition. Furthermore, the availability of comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, is a critical factor. Practices that actively monitor patient adherence to prescribed medications and provide ongoing support are likely to achieve superior outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Summerton. Given the potential geographical barriers to accessing healthcare, telemedicine can bridge the gap by providing virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The success of telemedicine adoption hinges on factors such as reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing workflows.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the impact on mental health. Chronic respiratory illnesses, like asthma, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore essential for holistic patient care. Primary care practices that actively screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient well-being. Integrating mental health services into asthma management can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Assessing the specific practices within ZIP code 29148 requires a detailed examination of each provider. This involves researching their credentials, patient reviews, and the services they offer. Analyzing the availability of after-hours care, which is critical for managing asthma exacerbations, is also essential. Investigating the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing resources on asthma triggers, medication usage, and emergency protocols, is another key area of focus. Furthermore, exploring the practice's participation in asthma-related research or clinical trials could indicate a commitment to staying at the forefront of asthma care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma may require the expertise of a specialist. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonology services are therefore crucial factors. Examining the referral patterns of primary care practices can reveal how effectively they connect patients with specialized care when needed.

Another important factor is the involvement of community resources. Asthma management often extends beyond the doctor's office, requiring support from schools, community organizations, and pharmacies. Practices that collaborate with these resources to provide education, support, and access to medications are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This collaborative approach can help to create a supportive environment for patients with asthma.

Furthermore, evaluating the accessibility of pharmacies within the ZIP code is crucial. Patients need easy access to their medications, and the availability of pharmacies that offer specialized asthma medication services is beneficial. This includes providing medication counseling, assisting with insurance coverage, and offering refill reminders. The proximity of pharmacies to primary care practices can also facilitate communication and coordination of care.

The overall ‘Asthma Score’ for the doctors in ZIP code 29148 would be a composite of all these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. It would also consider the involvement of community resources and the accessibility of pharmacies. This score, however, is dynamic and constantly evolving.

To truly understand the landscape of asthma care in Summerton and the surrounding areas, a visual representation is invaluable. To gain deeper insights into physician locations, patient demographics, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider leveraging the power of advanced mapping tools.

CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive visual analysis of the area, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, pinpoint potential gaps in services, and visualize the impact of telemedicine and community resources. These interactive maps can help you make informed decisions about asthma care and resource allocation. Explore the possibilities and discover how CartoChrome maps can transform your understanding of asthma care in Summerton.