29160, Swansea, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29160, Swansea, South Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.88 percent of the residents in 29160 has some form of health insurance. 47.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.92 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 29160 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,538 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29160. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,353 health care providers accessible to residents in 29160, Swansea, South Carolina.

The health landscape within the 29160 ZIP code, encompassing Swansea, South Carolina, presents a complex picture when evaluating overall health. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This score, however, is not a simple numerical value, but a synthesized understanding of the factors influencing the community’s well-being.

The foundation of any healthy community rests upon the availability of primary care physicians. In Swansea, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, publicly available data suggests a potential shortage of primary care providers relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a potential strain on emergency services. Residents might find themselves traveling outside the immediate area to secure timely medical attention. This geographic limitation, coupled with potential transportation challenges, significantly impacts the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices, often characterized by patient-centered care, advanced technology, and a commitment to community health, can serve as beacons of excellence. However, in a smaller community like Swansea, the number of practices is limited. Evaluating the existing practices involves scrutinizing their patient reviews, the range of services offered, and their integration of technology. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and prioritize patient education contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations, can significantly improve access, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The extent to which practices in Swansea have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, directly impacts the overall health score. Practices lagging in this area may inadvertently contribute to access barriers.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services within the community is crucial. Assessing the presence of these resources, including their accessibility and affordability, is a key element in the overall health score. A lack of readily available mental health services can exacerbate existing health issues and create significant barriers to overall well-being. The presence of community support groups, mental health awareness programs, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health professionals are all positive indicators.

The overall health score for the 29160 ZIP code, considering these factors, is moderate. While there are likely dedicated healthcare providers committed to serving the community, the potential limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, the limited number of practices, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption and mental health resources, all contribute to a less than ideal health landscape. The community's health is impacted by the availability of resources and the ability to access them.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors. The median income, the percentage of residents with health insurance, and the prevalence of chronic diseases all influence the overall health score. A community with a lower median income and a higher rate of uninsured individuals will likely face greater challenges in accessing healthcare, impacting the overall health score negatively. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, also impacts the score.

The impact of preventative care is also considered. The availability of preventative services, such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, and regular check-ups, is a critical component of overall health. Practices that prioritize preventative care and actively encourage patients to participate in these services contribute positively to the overall health score. The data on preventative care is crucial to assessing the overall health of the community.

The integration of technology is also considered. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and other technological advancements can improve patient care, streamline administrative processes, and enhance communication between patients and providers. Practices that embrace technology are often better positioned to provide efficient and effective care, contributing positively to the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for the 29160 ZIP code is a composite of several factors, including physician availability, the quality of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the impact of socioeconomic factors. While specific scores are difficult to assign without comprehensive data, the analysis suggests a need for improvement in several key areas. The community’s health is an ongoing process, and the factors discussed need to be regularly assessed.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Swansea and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.