29918, Estill, South Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 29918, Estill, South Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.02 percent of the residents in 29918 has some form of health insurance. 43.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.82 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 29918 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29918. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 190 health care providers accessible to residents in 29918, Estill, South Carolina.

The following analysis assesses asthma care and primary care availability within ZIP code 29918, focusing on Estill, South Carolina. This evaluation utilizes publicly available data and aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive perspective for residents seeking healthcare services.

Estill, a small town, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population base and rural setting often impact the availability of specialized medical professionals and resources. Understanding these constraints is crucial for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Estill, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population likely falls below the national average. This means that each physician is responsible for a larger number of patients, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. Accurate, up-to-date physician-to-patient ratio data for this specific ZIP code is difficult to obtain publicly, however, the rural nature of the area suggests a potential shortage. This shortage can significantly affect asthma patients, who require regular check-ups and prompt access to care during exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices requires considering various factors. Evaluating the quality of asthma care involves looking at practices that offer comprehensive services, including spirometry testing, asthma education, and personalized treatment plans. Practices that actively participate in asthma management programs and adhere to national guidelines are generally considered to provide higher-quality care. Furthermore, patient reviews and satisfaction scores offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. This is especially beneficial in a location like Estill, where travel distances can be significant. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly impact the ability of asthma patients to manage their condition effectively.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health, and their availability is particularly relevant for asthma patients. Chronic illnesses can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources is crucial for understanding the support available to patients managing asthma.

Primary care availability in Estill is directly linked to asthma care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients with asthma. They can diagnose the condition, initiate treatment, and provide ongoing management. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the accessibility of asthma care in the community. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially worsening asthma outcomes.

Analyzing specific practices within ZIP code 29918 requires examining their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information. Identifying practices that offer specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is critical. However, the limited population base in Estill might mean that residents need to travel to larger towns or cities for specialized asthma care. Therefore, assessing the referral networks of local primary care practices is important.

The ability to provide comprehensive asthma care depends on several factors. The availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, is crucial. Practices that have the necessary equipment can accurately assess lung function and monitor the effectiveness of treatment. The availability of asthma educators is also important. These professionals can provide patients with education about their condition, teach them how to use inhalers correctly, and help them develop self-management plans.

The integration of technology is another key factor. Practices that utilize electronic health records can improve care coordination and communication. These systems allow physicians to easily access patient information, share records with specialists, and track patient progress. The use of patient portals can also improve communication and empower patients to manage their care more effectively.

The financial aspects of healthcare also influence access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans is essential. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans make care more accessible to a broader population. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford their medications or other healthcare services is also important.

The overall assessment of asthma care and primary care availability in Estill, SC, reveals a healthcare environment shaped by the realities of a rural setting. The limited population and geographic isolation likely contribute to challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized services. The success of asthma management hinges on the capacity of primary care providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Estill and the surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a detailed and geographically-focused view of healthcare resources, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Visit CartoChrome today to visualize the healthcare landscape of Estill, SC.