29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 29439 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.69 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 29439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 251 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29439. An estimate of 22 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,808 health care providers accessible to residents in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina.

The analysis will explore the asthma care landscape within ZIP Code 29439, encompassing Folly Beach, South Carolina. This assessment aims to gauge the quality and accessibility of primary care, a crucial factor in managing asthma, and evaluate the resources available to patients in this specific geographical area. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system concerning asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Folly Beach, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical element. A higher ratio suggests potentially easier access to appointments, shorter wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio could indicate challenges in securing timely appointments, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis or treatment for asthma sufferers. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau, when analyzed together, can provide an initial estimate of this ratio. However, this initial estimate needs to be refined. Further investigation into the specific number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients is essential for a more accurate assessment.

Primary care availability is paramount for asthma management. Regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education are cornerstones of effective asthma control. Assessing the availability involves examining the number of primary care practices within the area, their operating hours, and their acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. The presence of after-hours or weekend clinics can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients who may experience exacerbations outside of regular business hours. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable distance is also crucial. The presence of these specialists ensures that patients have access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options when needed.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based asthma guidelines, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive asthma management plans, and regular follow-up appointments are likely to be considered standout practices. Reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and data from healthcare rating websites can offer valuable insights into the experiences of asthma patients within the community. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement are also likely to be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on asthma management is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in Folly Beach is a critical factor. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. Evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use of the technology, and the availability of technical support for patients are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Access to mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is crucial for addressing these issues and improving overall quality of life. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, and the availability of support groups or educational resources for asthma patients are all important considerations. Practices that recognize the connection between asthma and mental health and actively address these needs are likely to provide more comprehensive and holistic care.

The evaluation of these factors will provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis for doctors in ZIP Code 29439. This score will reflect the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of asthma care available in Folly Beach. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The final score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking asthma care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

The compilation of this data, the analysis of trends, and the visualization of the findings can be a complex undertaking. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Folly Beach, and to visualize the geographic distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools, enabling you to explore the healthcare environment in detail.