29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 29439 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.69 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 29439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 251 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29439. An estimate of 22 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,808 health care providers accessible to residents in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors & Primary Care in Folly Beach (ZIP Code 29439)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Folly Beach, South Carolina (ZIP code 29439), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Each of these components contributes to an overall health score, reflecting the community's capacity to access and receive quality medical care.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in its access to primary care. In Folly Beach, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While the island community enjoys a desirable lifestyle, its small size and relative isolation pose challenges to healthcare accessibility. The number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, or readily accessible via nearby communities, directly impacts the ability of residents to obtain routine check-ups, preventative care, and management of chronic conditions.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio provides a quantitative measure of access. This ratio compares the number of primary care physicians to the population size. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access, shorter wait times, and improved opportunities for personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio can signal potential bottlenecks, making it difficult for residents to secure timely appointments and receive consistent medical attention. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for Folly Beach requires careful examination of local physician directories and population data.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing medical practices are vital. Standout practices, characterized by experienced physicians, advanced technology, and patient-centered care models, can significantly elevate the overall health score. These practices often offer a broader range of services, including specialized care, chronic disease management programs, and educational resources. Identifying and recognizing these high-performing practices is essential for understanding the strengths of the local healthcare system.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially for geographically isolated communities. Its adoption in Folly Beach can significantly improve access to care, particularly for residents with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those seeking specialized consultations. Examining the availability of telemedicine services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is critical to assessing the community's health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling centers, is crucial. The presence of these resources, coupled with the integration of mental health services into primary care settings, contributes to a more holistic approach to healthcare. The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and educational programs also plays a significant role in promoting mental wellness within the community.

The overall health score for Folly Beach is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a strong presence of standout medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources would receive a higher score. Conversely, a community facing challenges in any of these areas would likely receive a lower score, indicating a need for targeted interventions to improve healthcare access and quality.

The assessment process involves gathering data from various sources. Local physician directories, insurance provider networks, and hospital databases provide information on physician availability and practice locations. Patient reviews, online ratings, and community surveys offer insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction. Information on telemedicine adoption can be obtained from healthcare providers and technology vendors. Finally, data on mental health resources can be collected from local mental health organizations, clinics, and support groups.

Analyzing the collected data requires a systematic approach. Each factor – physician-to-patient ratio, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – is evaluated individually, and then combined to produce an overall health score. The weighting of each factor may vary depending on its perceived importance. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted more heavily than the availability of a single telemedicine service.

The final health score provides a comprehensive snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Folly Beach. It identifies areas of strength and weakness, highlighting opportunities for improvement. This score serves as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, enabling them to make informed decisions about resource allocation, program development, and healthcare advocacy.

The health score is not static; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare environment. As new physicians enter the community, telemedicine services expand, and mental health resources become more readily available, the overall health score will likely improve. Conversely, factors like physician retirements or a lack of investment in mental health services could negatively impact the score.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape in Folly Beach. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, the community can work together to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and promote the overall health and well-being of its residents. This requires a commitment to ongoing evaluation, collaboration, and innovation.