29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.03 percent of the residents in 29664 has some form of health insurance. 47.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.45 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 29664 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29664. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 855 health care providers accessible to residents in 29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 29664, encompassing the community of Mountain Rest, South Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence and quality of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, the goal is to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' assessment for residents.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Mountain Rest, a primarily rural area, this availability is often a significant challenge. Data suggests a relatively low physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urbanized areas. This means that the number of residents vying for access to a limited number of primary care doctors is higher, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a greater reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions. The geographical isolation of Mountain Rest further exacerbates this issue, as residents may need to travel considerable distances to reach the nearest medical facilities.

Standout medical practices can significantly improve the overall health score of a community. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. They might excel in areas such as chronic disease management, preventative screenings, or patient education. Identifying such practices in Mountain Rest requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, quality metrics, and the scope of services offered. Determining the presence of practices with specialized services, such as geriatric care or pediatric care, is also crucial, as these services directly address the specific healthcare needs of different demographic groups within the community.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Mountain Rest. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making healthcare more accessible for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, is a key indicator of a community's health score. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, the types of services offered virtually, and the patient experience with these technologies is critical.

Mental health resources are another critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the growing need for mental healthcare services. Rural communities often face significant challenges in this area, including a shortage of mental health providers, limited access to specialized care, and the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. Evaluating the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of counseling services, and the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices is essential for a comprehensive health score assessment. The presence of community support groups and mental health awareness programs also contributes to the overall health and well-being of residents.

The specific details of physician-to-patient ratios in 29664 require data analysis from sources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. This data provides a numerical representation of the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population size. Any ratio above the national average would indicate a potential shortage of physicians. The analysis should also consider the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code, as uneven distribution can lead to disparities in access to care for certain segments of the population.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Accreditation by organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) can also indicate a commitment to quality and safety. The scope of services offered, including specialized care options, also contributes to the assessment. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and have a strong focus on preventative care are likely to be considered standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption assessment involves determining the types of telemedicine services offered by local practices. This includes virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and the use of digital health tools. The availability of secure and user-friendly platforms for telemedicine consultations is also important. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their workflows and provide training and support to both patients and staff are likely to be considered leaders in telemedicine adoption. The analysis should also consider the patient experience with telemedicine, including ease of use, satisfaction with the virtual consultation, and the impact on access to care.

Mental health resource assessment requires identifying the availability of mental health professionals in the area. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers. The presence of mental health clinics and counseling services is also important. The analysis should also consider the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices, as this can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The availability of community support groups and mental health awareness programs also contributes to the overall mental health of the community.

Overall, assessing the health score of Mountain Rest, SC, involves a complex interplay of factors. While the rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized services, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly impact the overall health and well-being of the community. A comprehensive analysis requires a detailed examination of these factors, drawing on data from various sources and considering the unique characteristics of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mountain Rest, and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to easily identify areas with limited access to care and to understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the health data of Mountain Rest and surrounding areas.