29828, Gloverville, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29828, Gloverville, South Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.80 percent of the residents in 29828 has some form of health insurance. 48.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.64 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 29828 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 67 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29828. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,810 health care providers accessible to residents in 29828, Gloverville, South Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Gloverville, SC (ZIP Code 29828)

Gloverville, South Carolina, a small community nestled within ZIP code 29828, presents a unique landscape for analyzing asthma care and primary care availability. This analysis, focusing on an "Asthma Score" framework, evaluates the accessibility, quality, and breadth of resources available to residents managing this chronic respiratory condition. The assessment considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized asthma care, adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial for effective asthma management.

The cornerstone of any asthma care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Gloverville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, such as that from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), provides insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of asthma. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare infrastructure. However, simply counting physicians isn't enough. The type of practice, their specialization, and their integration of asthma-specific protocols are equally important.

Beyond general primary care, the availability of specialists is vital. While a PCP can manage mild to moderate asthma, severe or uncontrolled cases often necessitate the expertise of a pulmonologist or allergist. The presence of such specialists, and their proximity to Gloverville, is a significant factor in the "Asthma Score." Travel time to these specialists, the ability to secure timely appointments, and the availability of specialized diagnostic tools like spirometry, all contribute to the overall effectiveness of the care system. The absence of specialists within a reasonable distance can create a significant barrier to optimal asthma management, potentially leading to increased hospitalizations and reduced quality of life for asthma sufferers.

Examining specific practices within and around Gloverville is crucial. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating their commitment to asthma care. This includes assessing whether practices have designated asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively participate in asthma-related community outreach programs. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and integrate asthma management protocols into their workflow often demonstrate better patient outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care, including urgent care facilities, is essential for addressing asthma exacerbations that may occur outside of regular office hours.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients' symptoms, and provide medication refills can significantly improve access to care, especially for those living in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual asthma check-ups and follow-up appointments, are likely to score higher on the "Asthma Score." The ease of use of these platforms, the integration with existing EHR systems, and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can significantly impact asthma control. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their asthma care protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being. This includes providing access to mental health professionals, offering counseling services, and screening patients for anxiety and depression. The ability to address both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.

Further assessment of the "Asthma Score" requires an analysis of the local pharmacy landscape. The availability of asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications, is paramount. The ease of obtaining these medications, the cost, and the availability of pharmacist consultations regarding proper medication use are all contributing factors. Pharmacies that offer medication adherence programs and provide patient education on asthma management play a vital role in improving patient outcomes.

Finally, community resources play a significant role. The presence of asthma support groups, educational programs, and community health initiatives can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations is crucial for creating a supportive environment for asthma sufferers. The availability of resources in languages other than English, reflecting the diversity of the community, is also an important consideration.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Gloverville, SC (ZIP Code 29828) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, the characteristics of individual practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, pharmacy resources, and community support all contribute to the overall quality of asthma care. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed examination of each of these areas, with the ultimate goal of identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Gloverville have access to the best possible care for managing their asthma.

To visualize this data and gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape of Gloverville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and practice characteristics, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.