29164, Wagener, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29164, Wagener, South Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.90 percent of the residents in 29164 has some form of health insurance. 43.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.38 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 29164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,403 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 212 health care providers accessible to residents in 29164, Wagener, South Carolina.

Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29164 and Primary Care Availability in Wagener

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 29164, encompassing the town of Wagener, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Ultimately, the aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. Wagener, a rural community, faces challenges common to such areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. While precise data on the current ratio within 29164 fluctuates, it's reasonable to assume a ratio that is less favorable compared to more urbanized areas. This necessitates a careful evaluation of how existing primary care practices are managing patient loads and whether there are plans for expansion or recruitment.

Identifying standout practices within Wagener is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in patient care, offering insights into efficient operations, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative approaches. Factors to consider include the range of services offered, the quality of patient reviews, the integration of technology, and the practice's commitment to community outreach. The presence of board-certified physicians and specialists, even if they visit the area on a rotating basis, significantly enhances the overall health score. Examining the practices' commitment to chronic disease management, preventative care, and patient education is also essential.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within 29164 is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve access to care. Telemedicine can address several challenges, including geographical barriers, transportation limitations, and the shortage of specialists. Evaluating the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, the types of services provided (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services is vital. The more widespread the adoption, the higher the score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, significantly impacts the community's well-being. Assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the range of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, sliding scale fees) is critical. The presence of community support groups, mental health awareness programs, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers further enhances the score.

The overall health score is also influenced by the presence of supporting healthcare services. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, etc.), laboratory services, pharmacies, and specialized medical care. The proximity of these services, their hours of operation, and their integration with primary care practices all contribute to the community's ability to provide comprehensive care.

The quality of care delivered is also influenced by the demographics of the population. Wagener, like many rural communities, has an aging population. This necessitates a focus on geriatric care, including specialized services for age-related conditions and the availability of home healthcare options. Furthermore, understanding the prevalence of chronic diseases within the community, such as diabetes and heart disease, is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population.

The overall health score should be considered as a dynamic measure. It is influenced by a multitude of factors that change over time. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that the community's healthcare infrastructure is responsive to the evolving needs of its residents. This involves regular assessments of the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care.

The assessment of the overall health score also involves looking at the social determinants of health. These are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. Factors such as poverty, education levels, access to healthy food, and housing quality can all significantly impact health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants is essential for improving the overall health of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 29164 and primary care availability in Wagener is a complex assessment. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. While Wagener faces challenges common to rural communities, a commitment to improving access to care, leveraging technology, and addressing the social determinants of health can significantly improve the overall health score.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wagener and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, the distribution of healthcare professionals, and other relevant data points, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help visualize the health infrastructure and assist in identifying areas for improvement.