29544, Galivants Ferry, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29544, Galivants Ferry, South Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 29544 has some form of health insurance. 45.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.99 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 29544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,695 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,009 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,010 health care providers accessible to residents in 29544, Galivants Ferry, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Galivants Ferry, SC (ZIP Code 29544)

Galivants Ferry, South Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 29544, presents a unique profile for healthcare access and overall health outcomes. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for residents and potential newcomers.

The foundation of any health score analysis lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. In Galivants Ferry, the ratio likely reflects a more rural environment. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. A lower ratio (fewer physicians per capita) often indicates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and a heavier burden on existing medical professionals. Data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau would be essential to determine the precise ratio. However, based on the rural nature of the area, it is reasonable to anticipate that the ratio might be less favorable compared to more urbanized regions.

Primary care availability is the next critical factor. The physical presence of PCPs, family doctors, and internal medicine specialists within the ZIP code is paramount. Beyond the number of physicians, the distribution of these practices matters. Are the practices concentrated in one area, making access easier for some residents and more difficult for others? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that cater to underserved populations? The presence of these resources significantly impacts the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is another key element. This involves looking beyond the raw numbers and assessing the quality of care. Practices with strong patient satisfaction ratings, accreditation from recognized bodies like the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), and a commitment to preventative care contribute positively to the health score. These practices often demonstrate a dedication to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care, which is crucial in a rural setting. They can serve as models for other practices in the area, potentially improving the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a way to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists and primary care physicians. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, significantly enhance the health score. This technology can reduce travel time, improve convenience, and allow for more frequent check-ins, particularly for patients with chronic conditions. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within or near Galivants Ferry is critical. The lack of mental health resources can lead to untreated conditions, exacerbating physical health problems and negatively impacting quality of life. The presence of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships with local schools and community organizations further enhances the health score. Access to mental healthcare should be considered an integral part of the overall health assessment.

To arrive at a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," these factors must be weighed and analyzed. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. Primary care availability, including the distribution of practices and the presence of safety-net providers, is crucial. The quality of care, as reflected in standout practices, adds another layer of complexity. Telemedicine adoption offers a solution to geographical challenges, and the availability of mental health resources completes the picture.

The overall health score for Galivants Ferry, SC (29544) will likely be influenced by the challenges inherent in a rural setting. The physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable, and the availability of specialists might be limited. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges and improve the overall health score. The score is not static and can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves.

To fully understand the healthcare landscape in Galivants Ferry and to make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation, it is essential to have access to up-to-date, detailed, and geographically referenced data. This data can be used to identify areas of need, to track trends over time, and to evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare interventions.

**CartoChrome Maps** provides an ideal platform for visualizing and analyzing this complex data. Their interactive mapping tools can be used to pinpoint the location of healthcare providers, to display physician-to-patient ratios, to map the distribution of mental health resources, and to identify areas with limited access to care. By using CartoChrome Maps, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Galivants Ferry and work together to improve the health and well-being of its residents.