29685, Sunset, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29685, Sunset, South Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.72 percent of the residents in 29685 has some form of health insurance. 40.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.80 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 29685 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 461 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29685. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 457 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,805 health care providers accessible to residents in 29685, Sunset, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29685 and Primary Care Availability in Sunset

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for medical resources within ZIP code 29685, specifically focusing on primary care availability in the Sunset area. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and stakeholders.

Assessing the healthcare environment requires a multifaceted approach, beginning with the fundamental metric of physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP code 29685, a detailed examination of the population and the number of actively practicing primary care physicians is crucial. The ideal physician-to-patient ratio varies, but generally, a higher ratio (fewer patients per doctor) indicates better access to care. This analysis will need to compare the observed ratio in 29685 to national and regional averages to determine its relative standing. Areas with high population density and a low number of primary care physicians will likely experience longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care.

Identifying standout practices is another key component of this evaluation. Certain medical facilities may distinguish themselves through specialized services, patient satisfaction scores, or innovative care models. For instance, practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or comprehensive wellness programs are likely to receive higher marks. Reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and quality ratings from reputable sources can help identify these standout practices. The presence of board-certified physicians and the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-ray, lab work) also contribute to a practice's overall quality score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, which encompasses virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can greatly enhance access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. This analysis will investigate the extent to which primary care practices in 29685 utilize telemedicine technologies. Practices that offer telehealth options for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up appointments will be considered favorably. The ease of use of these telehealth platforms, including user-friendliness and technical support, will also be considered.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important aspect of overall healthcare. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. This analysis will assess the presence of mental health providers within the ZIP code, including their accessibility, insurance acceptance, and the range of services offered. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, will be viewed positively. The availability of crisis intervention services and support for substance abuse issues will also be considered.

Specifics are paramount. For example, if a particular practice in Sunset, within 29685, has a high patient satisfaction rating and offers extended hours, this would be highlighted. The name of the practice, its location, and the specific services it provides would be detailed. If a primary care practice has fully embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for a variety of conditions, this would be noted, including the name of the practice and the types of virtual services offered. The presence of a community mental health center in the area, its services, and its accessibility would also be specifically addressed.

The assessment of physician-to-patient ratios requires the use of reliable data sources. This involves consulting publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the state medical boards. These sources provide information on the number of licensed physicians and the population of the area. The data must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists, as the presence of specialists can reduce the burden on primary care physicians.

The evaluation of standout practices will require a review of various sources, including patient reviews, online ratings, and professional accreditations. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and physician quality. Accreditation by organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) also indicates a commitment to quality and safety. The analysis will also consider the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs), as EHRs can improve care coordination and patient safety.

Telemedicine adoption will be assessed by examining the websites of primary care practices and contacting them directly to inquire about their telehealth services. The analysis will consider the types of telehealth services offered, the platforms used, and the ease of access for patients. The availability of technical support and the practice's commitment to patient privacy will also be evaluated. The analysis will also consider the use of remote patient monitoring devices, which can help patients manage chronic conditions at home.

The assessment of mental health resources will involve identifying the mental health providers in the area, including therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors. The analysis will consider the range of services offered, the insurance plans accepted, and the accessibility of appointments. The presence of community mental health centers, crisis intervention services, and support groups will also be evaluated. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists.

The final Overall Health Score will be a composite of these factors, weighted based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of mental health resources might be weighted more heavily than the availability of extended hours. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, along with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement. This score will provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in 29685, specifically for primary care in Sunset, and will serve as a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 29685, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data, identify areas with limited access, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.