29137, Salley, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29137, Salley, South Carolina is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.43 percent of the residents in 29137 has some form of health insurance. 48.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.40 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 29137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29137. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 133 health care providers accessible to residents in 29137, Salley, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29137 & Primary Care Availability in Salley

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 29137, encompassing the town of Salley, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the raw number of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the adoption of innovative practices, and the availability of crucial mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ by evaluating these key factors.

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can significantly impact access to care. In 29137, the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires a detailed analysis of the resident population and the number of practicing physicians, including specialists. Publicly available data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau provides the foundation for this calculation. A ratio significantly higher than the national average would indicate a potential shortage, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a healthier environment for accessing medical services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is critical. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing essential preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The geographic distribution of these physicians within Salley is a crucial factor. Are they clustered in one area, leaving other parts of the town underserved? Examining the locations of primary care practices, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans paints a more nuanced picture of accessibility.

Identifying standout practices within 29137 is equally important. This involves evaluating practices based on factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and employ a diverse staff are likely to receive higher scores. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and provide health education initiatives contribute positively to the overall health of the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the overall health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, especially for residents in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and reduce the need for travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are likely to score higher in this analysis. The availability of reliable internet access within the ZIP code also plays a crucial role in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Mental health is often under-addressed, and the lack of access to mental healthcare can have a detrimental impact on the community. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within 29137 is essential. This includes evaluating the number of mental health professionals, their acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups and other resources. Furthermore, the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices is a positive indicator, as it promotes early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

The overall health score also needs to consider the presence of specialty care. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists is vital for treating specific conditions. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and endocrinologists, within a reasonable distance from Salley, is a key indicator of a healthy healthcare ecosystem. Examining referral patterns from primary care physicians and the wait times for specialist appointments provides further insight into the accessibility of specialty care.

Furthermore, the overall health score should consider the socioeconomic factors impacting the community. Factors such as poverty rates, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options can significantly influence health outcomes. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources provides the necessary information to assess these factors. Addressing these socioeconomic disparities is crucial for improving the overall health of the community.

The quality of care is another essential aspect of the overall health score. This involves evaluating patient outcomes, such as hospital readmission rates and the prevalence of chronic diseases. Data from healthcare providers and public health agencies can be used to assess these outcomes. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement and patient safety are likely to receive higher scores.

Finally, the overall health score should consider the community's health literacy. Health literacy refers to the ability of individuals to understand and use health information to make informed decisions. Programs that promote health literacy, such as educational workshops and community outreach initiatives, can significantly improve health outcomes. The availability of health education materials and the use of plain language in healthcare communications are also important factors.

In conclusion, assessing the ‘Overall Health Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 29137 and primary care availability in Salley requires a comprehensive analysis of multiple factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic factors impacting the community. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Salley and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 29137, including the location of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.