29453, Jamestown, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29453, Jamestown, South Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.33 percent of the residents in 29453 has some form of health insurance. 66.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.92 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 29453 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29453. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 566 health care providers accessible to residents in 29453, Jamestown, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Jamestown, SC (ZIP Code 29453)

Jamestown, South Carolina, nestled within the 29453 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score reflects the overall ease with which residents can access quality asthma care within the community.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in robust primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) acts as a crucial gateway for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. Assessing the concentration of PCPs within the 29453 ZIP code is paramount. Data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the American Medical Association (AMA) provides the necessary information to determine the number of practicing PCPs. This data is then compared to the population of Jamestown to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per resident, generally signifies better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is equally important. Identifying standout practices within Jamestown that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as: the availability of in-office spirometry testing (a lung function test), the use of asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs, and the provision of patient education on asthma triggers and medication adherence. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related continuing medical education (CME) and adhere to national guidelines, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), are likely to provide superior care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Jamestown. Examining the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is essential. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations. This can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, who may require frequent monitoring and adjustments to their treatment plans. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially those that are easily accessible and user-friendly, contribute positively to the overall "Asthma Score." The availability of virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with transportation limitations or other logistical challenges.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities among asthma patients. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is critical. Assessing the availability of mental health services within Jamestown is a key component of the "Asthma Score" analysis. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, who are accessible to residents. Furthermore, practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ability to address the psychological impact of asthma can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The "Asthma Score" for Jamestown, SC (29453) is a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates better access to care and a more supportive environment for asthma management. This score is not a static number; it is subject to change based on factors such as physician availability, practice improvements, and the evolution of healthcare technology.

To arrive at a comprehensive "Asthma Score," a weighted approach is employed. The physician-to-patient ratio receives a significant weight, reflecting its fundamental role in access to care. The quality of care provided by local practices, including the availability of spirometry, asthma action plans, and patient education, also carries a substantial weight. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources each contribute to the overall score, reflecting the importance of these factors in providing comprehensive asthma care.

Based on available data, the "Asthma Score" for Jamestown, SC (29453) requires further investigation. While specific data points are needed to arrive at a precise score, the preliminary assessment suggests potential areas for improvement. The rural nature of Jamestown may present challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized services. The adoption of telemedicine, while potentially beneficial, requires further evaluation to determine its prevalence and effectiveness. The integration of mental health resources may be an area for particular focus, given the significant impact of asthma on mental well-being.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jamestown, and to visualize the location of primary care physicians, the availability of mental health resources, and other relevant data points, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of access to care and the factors that influence asthma management.