29686, Tamassee, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29686, Tamassee, South Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.29 percent of the residents in 29686 has some form of health insurance. 49.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.82 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 29686 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 128 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29686. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 192 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 951 health care providers accessible to residents in 29686, Tamassee, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29686 and Primary Care Availability in Tamassee

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 29686, encompassing the town of Tamassee, South Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in the accessibility of primary care. Tamassee, being a relatively rural area, may face challenges in this regard. A key indicator of primary care availability is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data collection from multiple sources, including state medical boards, insurance providers, and local healthcare facilities. However, the general understanding is that rural areas often struggle to attract and retain primary care physicians compared to more urban settings.

Beyond the raw numbers, it's crucial to evaluate the quality and breadth of primary care services offered. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians available within a reasonable distance? Do these practices accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? The presence of a diverse range of primary care providers, coupled with insurance acceptance, is critical to ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care, either through extended clinic hours or on-call services, is a significant factor in assessing overall accessibility.

Identifying standout medical practices within the ZIP code can provide valuable insights into the quality of care available. This requires a review of patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. Practices that have earned recognition for patient satisfaction, employ advanced technologies, or have implemented patient-centered care models are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. These practices often serve as models for other providers and can elevate the standard of care within the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Tamassee. The adoption of telemedicine by local providers can significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score'. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations for chronic conditions. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic prescription capabilities, is a key indicator of a forward-thinking healthcare environment.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within ZIP code 29686 is a crucial factor in the 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, and other mental health professionals. The ease of access to these services, including the acceptance of insurance and the availability of appointment slots, is essential. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the co-location of mental health professionals or the implementation of screening programs, can significantly improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

The 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP code 29686 and primary care availability in Tamassee is ultimately a composite measure. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the breadth and quality of primary care services, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare ecosystem that provides accessible, high-quality care to all residents. Conversely, a low score suggests areas for improvement, such as the need to recruit more physicians, expand telemedicine services, or increase access to mental health resources.

Improving the 'Overall Health Score' requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local government, community organizations, and residents. Strategies to improve access to care include recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, increasing the availability of mental health services, and promoting preventative care. Investing in community health initiatives, such as health education programs and chronic disease management programs, can also contribute to improved health outcomes.

In conclusion, the health landscape in Tamassee, South Carolina, is a complex interplay of factors. While a precise 'Overall Health Score' requires detailed data analysis, the key indicators discussed provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all critical components.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources and a detailed analysis of health metrics within ZIP code 29686 and beyond, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform offers a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and making informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.