The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29691, Walhalla, South Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 83.52 percent of the residents in 29691 has some form of health insurance. 47.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.71 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 29691 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29691. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,263 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 836 health care providers accessible to residents in 29691, Walhalla, South Carolina.
Health Scores in 29691, Walhalla, South Carolina
Overall Health Score | 4 |
---|---|
People Score | 12 |
Provider Score | 38 |
Hospital Score | 14 |
Travel Score | 33 |
29691 | Walhalla | South Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 327.35 | 8,223.67 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 1,363.64 | 34,299.38 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 1,754.31 | 43,486.52 | 0.00 |
## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 29691 and Primary Care in Walhalla
This analysis delves into the overall health score for the population served by physicians in ZIP Code 29691, specifically focusing on primary care availability within the city of Walhalla, South Carolina. We will examine various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.
The 29691 ZIP code encompasses Walhalla and its surrounding areas in Oconee County. Assessing the health of this population requires a multi-faceted approach. The foundation of good health often rests on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians. This is where the analysis begins.
One crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio provides a snapshot of the potential access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. While precise, real-time data on physician-to-patient ratios can fluctuate, publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide a baseline understanding. Comparing the ratio in 29691 to state and national averages allows for a relative assessment. A significantly lower ratio compared to the national average would raise concerns about potential access limitations.
Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices in Walhalla are important. Several practices may stand out due to their longevity, reputation, or specialized services. Some may be affiliated with larger healthcare systems, offering access to a broader network of specialists and resources. Other practices may be independent, fostering a more personalized and community-focused approach. Identifying the strengths of individual practices, such as their patient satisfaction scores, their range of services, and their acceptance of various insurance plans, is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.
The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor influencing the overall health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Walhalla. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. The extent to which primary care practices in 29691 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility and innovation.
Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health issues. Assessing the availability of these resources in Walhalla involves examining the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also important, as it can facilitate integrated care and improve patient outcomes.
Furthermore, the presence of other healthcare services, such as urgent care clinics, pharmacies, and specialty care providers, contributes to the overall health score. The proximity and availability of these services can impact the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care. The degree to which these services are integrated and coordinated also plays a role. For example, the ability of primary care physicians to easily refer patients to specialists and receive timely feedback on patient care is a key indicator of a well-functioning healthcare system.
The demographic characteristics of the population served by physicians in 29691 also influence the overall health score. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and chronic disease prevalence can impact healthcare needs and access. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the population allows for a more targeted assessment of healthcare resources and the identification of potential disparities in care.
Assessing the quality of care provided by physicians in 29691 requires considering several factors. This includes patient satisfaction scores, which can provide insights into the patient experience. Reviewing data on clinical outcomes, such as rates of hospital readmissions and preventative care screenings, can also provide insights into the effectiveness of care. Finally, examining the adherence to evidence-based guidelines and the use of best practices in patient care is also important.
The overall health score for doctors in 29691 and primary care availability in Walhalla can be improved by addressing identified areas of weakness. This may involve increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding the adoption of telemedicine, increasing the availability of mental health resources, and improving the coordination of care. Investing in public health initiatives, such as health education programs and disease prevention efforts, can also contribute to improving the health of the population.
In conclusion, evaluating the health score requires a multifaceted approach. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and demographic data, a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape can be achieved. This understanding can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the population served by physicians in 29691 and the residents of Walhalla.
To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape of Walhalla and the surrounding areas, consider using the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a deeper understanding of access and availability.
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