29477, Saint George, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29477, Saint George, South Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.64 percent of the residents in 29477 has some form of health insurance. 41.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.93 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 29477 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,365 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29477. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,455 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 29477, Saint George, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29477 & Primary Care Availability in Saint George

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 29477, encompassing Saint George, South Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This information will provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for the area.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit appointment availability. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the precise ratio for 29477 requires data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The analysis must compare this ratio to state and national averages. A significantly lower ratio than the norm could indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially hindering timely access to care.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction. The quality of care, communication, and the overall patient experience are key metrics. Furthermore, accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission indicate a commitment to quality and safety standards. Practices that demonstrate excellence in these areas contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine has transformed healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption within 29477 is a significant factor in the overall health score. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments enhance accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. The availability of telehealth services can mitigate the impact of a potentially low physician-to-patient ratio by expanding access to care. The analysis must investigate the prevalence of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in the area.

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within 29477 significantly impacts the health score. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis must investigate the number of mental health providers in the area and their accessibility. Factors like insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of specialized services (e.g., for children, adolescents, or specific mental health conditions) are crucial. A deficiency in mental health resources would negatively impact the overall health score, highlighting a critical need for improvement.

The demographics of Saint George also play a crucial role. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the population influence healthcare needs. The analysis must consider these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of the health landscape. For instance, a higher proportion of elderly residents may increase the demand for geriatric care, while a higher prevalence of diabetes or heart disease would necessitate specialized care and disease management programs.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of community health initiatives and programs. These initiatives, such as free health screenings, health education programs, and support groups, can significantly improve the health of the community. The availability and effectiveness of these programs contribute positively to the overall health score. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations is vital for the success of these initiatives.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also matters. The presence of modern, well-equipped clinics and hospitals enhances the quality of care. The analysis should assess the condition and capacity of healthcare facilities within 29477. Accessibility, including ease of parking and transportation options, is also important. These factors contribute to the overall patient experience and the efficiency of healthcare delivery.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. The analysis must assess the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their use of electronic health records (EHRs), and their commitment to patient-centered care. EHRs improve care coordination, reduce medical errors, and enhance communication between providers. Practices that prioritize patient education, shared decision-making, and preventive care contribute positively to the overall health score.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for doctors in ZIP code 29477 and primary care availability in Saint George is a complex assessment requiring comprehensive data analysis. The analysis must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, demographics, community health initiatives, physical infrastructure, and the quality of care provided. A thorough evaluation of these factors will provide a clear picture of the health landscape in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and informing strategies for improvement.

Ready to visualize the health landscape of Saint George and other areas? Explore CartoChrome maps for interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution.