29567, Little Rock, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29567, Little Rock, South Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.43 percent of the residents in 29567 has some form of health insurance. 55.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.97 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 29567 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 81 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29567. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 503 health care providers accessible to residents in 29567, Little Rock, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Comparing Physician Access and Healthcare Resources

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of two distinct areas: doctors practicing within ZIP Code 29567 (specifically, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and surrounding areas) and the primary care availability in Little Rock, Arkansas. We will assess various factors contributing to an "Overall Health Score" for each location, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comparative overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement in each region's healthcare system.

**ZIP Code 29567 (Myrtle Beach, SC and Surrounding Areas)**

The healthcare environment in ZIP Code 29567 presents a mixed picture. Myrtle Beach, being a popular tourist destination and a rapidly growing retirement community, faces unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise, up-to-the-minute data fluctuates, the area often struggles with a lower-than-average ratio, particularly in primary care and certain specialties. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing providers, and potential difficulty in securing timely medical attention.

Standout practices in the area, however, contribute positively to the overall health score. Several larger medical groups and hospital systems operate within and around 29567, offering a wider range of services and specialists. These practices often invest in advanced technology and employ a diverse team of healthcare professionals. The presence of these larger entities helps mitigate some of the challenges posed by the physician shortage, providing more comprehensive care options.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth services, and its continued integration is crucial. Successful adoption can improve access, especially for patients in more rural areas within the ZIP code or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telemedicine appointments, remote monitoring, and virtual consultations significantly improves the overall health score by expanding access to care.

Mental health resources are also a significant consideration. The area's growing population, including a large senior citizen demographic, often necessitates robust mental health support. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health clinics, as well as access to crisis intervention services, significantly impacts the overall health score. While the area has mental health resources, the demand often outstrips the supply, potentially leading to longer wait times and limited access to specialized care.

**Primary Care Availability in Little Rock, Arkansas**

Little Rock, as a state capital and a more established urban center, presents a different healthcare landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio in primary care is a critical indicator of access. While Little Rock might have a more favorable ratio compared to certain areas within 29567, the actual availability of primary care physicians can vary significantly depending on the specific neighborhood and socioeconomic factors. Areas with higher concentrations of low-income residents may experience greater challenges in accessing primary care.

Standout practices in Little Rock play a crucial role in shaping the overall health score. The city is home to several major hospitals and medical centers, including the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), which serves as a significant teaching hospital and research institution. These institutions often attract highly skilled physicians and offer a wide range of specialized services, boosting the overall health score. The presence of these major medical centers contributes to a higher level of care and access to advanced treatments.

Telemedicine adoption in Little Rock is also a significant factor. The city's healthcare providers have increasingly embraced telehealth, particularly during and after the pandemic. The availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and online consultations has expanded access to care, especially for patients in more remote areas or those with transportation challenges. This increased accessibility contributes positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of the overall health score. Little Rock, like many urban areas, faces challenges in providing adequate mental health services. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health clinics, as well as access to crisis intervention services, is crucial. The city has mental health resources, but demand may exceed supply, potentially leading to longer wait times and limited access to specialized care. Addressing these gaps is crucial to improving the overall health score.

**Comparative Analysis and Overall Health Score Considerations**

Comparing the two areas, it's difficult to definitively assign a single "Overall Health Score" without specific, real-time data. However, some generalizations can be made. Little Rock, due to its larger population, established medical infrastructure, and the presence of a major teaching hospital, may have a slight advantage in terms of overall healthcare resources and access. However, both areas face challenges, particularly in physician-to-patient ratios and mental health resources.

In 29567, the rapid population growth and tourist influx put additional strain on the healthcare system. The area's overall health score is impacted by the need to attract and retain healthcare professionals to meet the growing demand. Telemedicine and the expansion of mental health resources are critical for improving the score.

In Little Rock, while the infrastructure is more robust, disparities in access based on socioeconomic factors can impact the overall health score. Addressing these disparities and ensuring equitable access to care is essential. Continued investment in telemedicine and mental health services is also critical.

Both areas can improve their overall health scores by focusing on these key areas: increasing physician recruitment and retention, expanding telemedicine services, and bolstering mental health resources.

To understand the healthcare landscape in these areas more effectively, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed visualizations of healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of physician distribution, hospital locations, and other relevant factors. This information can be invaluable for both healthcare providers and individuals seeking to access care.