29817, Blackville, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29817, Blackville, South Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.86 percent of the residents in 29817 has some form of health insurance. 50.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.22 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 29817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,165 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 20 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 801 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 462 health care providers accessible to residents in 29817, Blackville, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Blackville, SC (ZIP Code 29817)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the Blackville, South Carolina (ZIP code 29817) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both residents and potential investors in healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. However, the rural nature of Blackville, South Carolina, presents significant challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. In many rural areas, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is considerably lower than in urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and overall poorer health outcomes. Accurately determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code requires data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). However, based on general trends and the known rural characteristics of the region, it is highly probable that the ratio in 29817 falls below the national average, indicating a potential shortage of primary care providers.

Identifying standout practices is essential to understanding the quality of care available. While a comprehensive review of all practices requires extensive research, the presence of any established, well-regarded primary care clinics or family medicine practices would be a significant asset. These practices often serve as the cornerstone of community health, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. The reputation of these practices, as reflected in patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered, contributes significantly to the overall health score. Without specific practice names, it is difficult to assess their individual impact; however, the existence of any such practices would be a positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, which encompasses the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can help bridge the geographical gap and improve access to care. The availability of telemedicine options, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, can significantly enhance the health score. The extent of telemedicine adoption in 29817 will depend on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of local providers to embrace technology, and the acceptance of telemedicine by patients. A high level of telemedicine adoption would indicate a forward-thinking healthcare environment, while limited adoption would suggest a potential barrier to access.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing the growing mental health crisis. The availability of these resources within the 29817 area is a key factor in the health score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, as well as the availability of mental health clinics or programs. Furthermore, the affordability of mental health services and the integration of mental health care into primary care settings are also important considerations. Limited access to mental health resources would significantly detract from the overall health score, highlighting a critical area for improvement.

In addition to these core factors, other elements contribute to the overall health score. These include the availability of specialty care, the presence of community health programs, and the overall health behaviors of the population. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and the rates of preventative care utilization, such as screenings and vaccinations, are also important indicators. A comprehensive assessment would require data on these factors to provide a holistic view of the health landscape.

The overall health score for 29817 is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges inherent in providing healthcare in a rural environment. The potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, combined with the need for improved mental health resources, could negatively impact the score. The presence of standout practices and a higher adoption rate of telemedicine could partially offset these challenges.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. These include recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, increasing access to mental health services, and promoting community health programs. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to achieving these goals.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Blackville, South Carolina, and to gain further insights into the distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable information on physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more detailed understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this area.