29044, Eastover, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29044, Eastover, South Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.11 percent of the residents in 29044 has some form of health insurance. 48.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.47 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 29044 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29044. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,094 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,859 health care providers accessible to residents in 29044, Eastover, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Eastover, SC (ZIP Code 29044)

Eastover, South Carolina, nestled in the heart of Richland County, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access and availability. Analyzing the overall health score for this community requires a nuanced understanding of its specific demographics, geographic limitations, and existing healthcare infrastructure. This analysis focuses on the key elements impacting health outcomes, specifically examining the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 29044 ZIP code.

One of the most critical metrics in assessing healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Eastover, the ratio is a significant factor in the overall health score. The area, being largely rural, often faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can lead to a higher patient load for existing doctors, potentially impacting the quality of care and the time available for each patient. This scarcity also affects the ability to schedule timely appointments, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. The overall physician-to-patient ratio in 29044 is likely lower than the national average, which directly affects the health score.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of preventative care. A robust primary care system allows for early detection of diseases, chronic disease management, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. In Eastover, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their willingness to accept new patients. The presence of family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians within a reasonable distance is crucial. If the local community has a limited number of primary care physicians, it will likely affect the overall health score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by the existing practices is important. This involves evaluating factors such as the experience and qualifications of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the overall patient satisfaction levels. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer comprehensive services, and actively engage in preventative care contribute positively to the health score. It is important to consider the reviews and ratings of the local practices to understand the patient's experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the health score. The integration of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, especially for those in rural communities. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing the impact of geographical barriers. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to improving access and convenience. The level of telemedicine adoption in the 29044 ZIP code directly impacts the overall health score.

The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial element of the overall health score. Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is essential. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in or near Eastover is a positive indicator. The ability to access mental health support, whether through in-person appointments or telehealth options, significantly impacts the community's health score. The absence of such resources, or their limited availability, would negatively affect the overall health score.

Another factor to consider is the presence of any standout practices within the 29044 ZIP code. These practices might distinguish themselves through their commitment to patient-centered care, their innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, or their specialized services. A practice that offers extended hours, accepts a wide range of insurance plans, or actively participates in community outreach programs would contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of a well-regarded practice can significantly boost the health score.

Furthermore, it is important to evaluate the health disparities that may exist within the community. Socioeconomic factors, race, and ethnicity can all influence health outcomes. Addressing these disparities requires an understanding of the specific challenges faced by different segments of the population. The health score should reflect the community's efforts to address health inequities and ensure that all residents have equal access to quality healthcare.

The overall health score for Eastover (29044) is likely influenced by the limited number of primary care physicians, the distance patients must travel to access specialized care, and the level of telemedicine adoption. The score is also affected by the availability of mental health resources and the presence of any standout practices. The community’s efforts to address health disparities will also impact the overall score.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Eastover, and to visualize the data discussed above, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to see the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of various healthcare services in the area. Using these maps, you can gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Eastover and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.