29153, Sumter, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.89 percent of the residents in 29153 has some form of health insurance. 41.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.82 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 29153 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29153. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,742 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,739 health care providers accessible to residents in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29153 and Sumter Primary Care

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the population served by physicians practicing within ZIP code 29153, and examines the availability of primary care services throughout Sumter, South Carolina. The evaluation considers several key factors impacting overall health, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and accessibility of healthcare providers, the adoption of telehealth technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In evaluating ZIP code 29153, a crucial starting point is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of residents served by each primary care physician. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Conversely, a favorable ratio, with fewer patients per doctor, generally translates to better access and more personalized attention. Assessing the actual physician-to-patient ratio in 29153 requires gathering data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the American Medical Association (AMA). This data should be compared against state and national averages to gauge the relative adequacy of primary care resources within the ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 29153 involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the use of evidence-based medicine. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, highlighting practices known for their compassionate care, efficient operations, and positive outcomes. Furthermore, practices that offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialized consultations, are generally better positioned to serve the diverse healthcare needs of the community.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical element of modern healthcare. The ability to access medical consultations and follow-up appointments remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within 29153 involves assessing the number of practices offering telehealth services, the types of services available via telehealth (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services. Practices that have embraced telehealth are often better equipped to serve a wider patient population and provide more convenient and accessible care.

The assessment extends to the availability of mental health resources. Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is essential for addressing a wide range of conditions, from anxiety and depression to more serious mental illnesses. Evaluating the mental health landscape within 29153 requires identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. It's also important to assess the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, as this can facilitate early detection and intervention. Furthermore, the presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and other resources can significantly enhance the overall mental health of the community.

Analyzing primary care availability throughout Sumter requires a broader perspective. This involves examining the distribution of primary care physicians across the entire county, identifying areas with potential shortages or limited access, and evaluating the impact of these disparities on the overall health of the population. Geographic information systems (GIS) can be particularly useful in this analysis, allowing for the visualization of physician density, the identification of underserved areas, and the assessment of access to care based on factors such as distance and transportation options.

The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in Sumter is also a key consideration. FQHCs are community-based healthcare providers that offer comprehensive primary care services, often to underserved populations. They play a vital role in improving access to care and reducing health disparities. Evaluating the services offered by FQHCs in Sumter, the populations they serve, and their impact on the overall health of the community is crucial.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of health insurance coverage on access to primary care. The percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance available, and the acceptance of different insurance plans by local providers all influence the ability of residents to access necessary healthcare services. Examining these factors can help identify potential barriers to care and inform strategies for improving access to primary care.

The overall health score for 29153 and Sumter is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation, incorporating new data and adapting to changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking trends in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Regular updates are essential to ensure that the assessment remains relevant and reflects the current state of healthcare in the community.

The final score should be a synthesis of all the factors discussed. It should reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the impact of health insurance coverage. The score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in 29153 and Sumter, enabling informed decision-making and promoting efforts to improve the overall health of the community.

Understanding the complexities of healthcare access and quality within a specific ZIP code and county requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key factors that influence overall health. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven insights, patient experiences, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. It also highlights the critical role of mental health resources and the impact of health insurance coverage.

For a more detailed and visually compelling understanding of healthcare access and availability in Sumter and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. These resources can provide valuable insights into physician distribution, access to care, and other critical health indicators.