29501, Florence, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29501, Florence, South Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.04 percent of the residents in 29501 has some form of health insurance. 34.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.20 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 29501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12,748 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,696 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,192 health care providers accessible to residents in 29501, Florence, South Carolina.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Florence, SC (ZIP Code 29501)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension care within Florence, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29501) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for the area. The goal is to understand the accessibility and quality of care available to patients managing this prevalent chronic condition.

The foundation of effective hypertension management rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Florence, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available information suggests a potential shortage of PCPs compared to national averages. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals at risk or already diagnosed with hypertension. This impacts the overall "Hypertension Score" negatively.

Within the 29501 ZIP code, the distribution of PCPs also plays a significant role. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, creating "healthcare deserts" for certain populations? Are there enough providers to adequately serve the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable to hypertension? The geographic distribution of providers, coupled with their capacity to accept new patients, directly influences the accessibility of care.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of individual practices are crucial. Some practices in Florence may distinguish themselves through their focus on hypertension management. These "standout practices" often employ evidence-based protocols, such as those recommended by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. They may have dedicated nurses or medical assistants trained in hypertension education and monitoring. They may also offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve patient access. The presence of such practices elevates the overall "Hypertension Score."

Technological integration is another key component. Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in hypertension care. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and patient portals can significantly enhance patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and frequent monitoring, allowing for timely adjustments to medication and lifestyle recommendations. The degree of telemedicine integration, including the types of platforms used and patient satisfaction with these services, contributes positively to the "Hypertension Score."

The intricate link between hypertension and mental health cannot be ignored. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate hypertension and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals is essential. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals significantly improve the "Hypertension Score." The seamless integration of mental health support is a critical indicator of comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as on-site pharmacies or laboratories, can streamline the patient experience and improve medication adherence. The ease of access to these services, along with the availability of bilingual staff for non-English speakers, contributes to the overall quality of care and influences the "Hypertension Score."

Specific examples of practices within the 29501 ZIP code would need further investigation to provide concrete examples. However, a hypothetical "standout practice" might be one that: employs a dedicated hypertension nurse, utilizes remote blood pressure monitoring, offers virtual consultations, has strong referral links to mental health professionals, and provides patient education materials in multiple languages. This hypothetical practice would likely receive a higher "Hypertension Score" compared to a practice that lacks these features.

The "Hypertension Score" also needs to consider the patient's perspective. Patient satisfaction surveys, feedback mechanisms, and reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Are patients satisfied with their access to care? Do they feel informed and empowered to manage their condition? Patient-centered care is a critical element of effective hypertension management, and patient feedback informs the overall assessment.

Evaluating the "Hypertension Score" requires a dynamic approach. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, guidelines, and best practices emerging regularly. Regular updates to the analysis are essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of mental health resources.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Florence, SC (29501) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient satisfaction all contribute to the overall assessment. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, informing efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of hypertension care for the residents of Florence.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the healthcare landscape of Florence, SC (29501) and identify areas where hypertension care can be improved. **Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of hypertension care in your community.**