29826, Elko, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29826, Elko, South Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.68 percent of the residents in 29826 has some form of health insurance. 60.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.60 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 29826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 20 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29826. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 569 health care providers accessible to residents in 29826, Elko, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29826 & Primary Care in Elko

This analysis evaluates the overall health landscape for residents within ZIP code 29826 and the broader primary care environment in Elko, Nevada. We will consider physician availability, practice quality, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources to provide a comprehensive health score assessment.

**ZIP Code 29826: A Microcosm of Rural Healthcare**

ZIP code 29826 likely represents a rural or semi-rural community. The availability of healthcare providers, particularly primary care physicians, is often a significant challenge in such areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a strong indicator of limited access. This ratio is a crucial metric; a higher number of patients per physician suggests longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and a heavier burden on existing healthcare professionals.

To accurately assess the situation in 29826, data regarding the number of practicing physicians (specifically primary care doctors, family medicine specialists, and internal medicine specialists) relative to the population is essential. We need to determine if the area is considered a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). Such a designation would underscore the critical need for more healthcare professionals.

The quality of care within 29826 is another key factor. This can be assessed by examining patient satisfaction surveys, reviews, and the presence of accredited healthcare facilities. Are there any standout practices that consistently receive positive feedback? Do these practices offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments? The availability of specialists, even if they travel to the area on a rotating basis, can significantly impact the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas. Does 29826 have a good adoption rate of telemedicine services? This allows patients to access healthcare remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. The presence of reliable internet infrastructure is critical for the successful implementation of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of overall health. Are there mental health professionals available in the area, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists? Are these resources accessible and affordable? The availability of mental health services is particularly important in rural areas, where factors like social isolation and economic hardship can contribute to mental health challenges.

**Primary Care Availability in Elko: A Broader Perspective**

Elko, as a larger community, may offer a more diverse healthcare landscape than ZIP code 29826. However, it's important to assess the overall primary care availability within the city. The physician-to-patient ratio is still a crucial indicator. A higher ratio in Elko may suggest a need for more primary care physicians to meet the healthcare needs of the population.

The presence of various primary care practices, including those affiliated with hospitals and independent clinics, should be evaluated. Are there any prominent healthcare systems or networks operating in Elko? The level of competition among providers can influence the quality of care and the availability of services.

The adoption of telemedicine in Elko should also be considered. Are primary care practices offering virtual appointments? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas of the county.

The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting is a positive trend. Are primary care practices in Elko integrating mental health screenings and referrals into their routine care? This can help identify and address mental health issues early on.

The availability of mental health resources in Elko is another crucial factor. Are there mental health clinics, therapists, and psychiatrists available in the city? Is there a sufficient supply of mental health professionals to meet the needs of the population? The presence of support groups and community-based mental health programs can also enhance the overall health of the community.

**Concluding Remarks**

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the quality of care, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources are all essential steps.

For both ZIP code 29826 and Elko, a comprehensive analysis would involve collecting data from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and patient surveys. This data would then be analyzed to create a detailed health score assessment.

**Call to Action**

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in these areas, we recommend exploring the power of data visualization. CartoChrome Maps can help you create interactive maps and dashboards that display healthcare data in an easy-to-understand format. This can help you identify areas with limited access to care, track the adoption of telemedicine, and visualize the distribution of mental health resources. By utilizing CartoChrome Maps, you can gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment and make informed decisions to improve the health and well-being of your community.