29506, Florence, South Carolina Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 29506, Florence, South Carolina is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.81 percent of the residents in 29506 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.97 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 29506 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,354 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29506. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 29506, Florence, South Carolina.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29506 and Primary Care Availability in Florence, South Carolina**

Florence, South Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Pee Dee region, faces a significant health challenge: hypertension. This chronic condition, often referred to as high blood pressure, affects a substantial portion of the population and is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Access to quality primary care, encompassing both preventative measures and effective treatment, is paramount in managing this widespread health concern. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 29506 ZIP code and the broader Florence area, focusing on factors crucial for hypertension management.

The 29506 ZIP code, a specific geographic area within Florence, serves as a microcosm for assessing primary care access. Analyzing physician density within this area reveals crucial insights. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of accessibility, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a higher ratio signifies greater availability and potentially improved patient outcomes. Data on the number of practicing primary care physicians, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, within the 29506 ZIP code, is essential to calculating this ratio. This data, when compared to the population demographics of the area, paints a clearer picture of the accessibility landscape.

Beyond simple physician counts, the quality of care is also a significant factor. Identifying standout practices within the 29506 ZIP code requires evaluating several aspects. These include patient satisfaction ratings, measured through online reviews and surveys, the adoption of evidence-based practices for hypertension management, and the implementation of comprehensive patient education programs. Practices that actively promote lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and regular exercise, alongside medication management, demonstrate a more holistic approach to hypertension control. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless communication between providers and improved monitoring of patient progress, are often associated with better outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has dramatically reshaped healthcare delivery. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among primary care physicians in the 29506 ZIP code is crucial. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, including increased convenience for patients, reduced travel time, and the potential for more frequent check-ins, all of which can improve hypertension management. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide accessible and proactive care. The availability of telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly impact the ability of patients to adhere to their treatment plans.

The complex interplay between physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension, like many chronic conditions, can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a vital component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive the support they need to manage their overall well-being, which in turn can improve their adherence to treatment and their ability to control their blood pressure.

Evaluating primary care availability in the broader Florence area, beyond the confines of the 29506 ZIP code, requires a broader perspective. This involves assessing the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, the presence of urgent care facilities, and the availability of specialty care, such as cardiology and nephrology. Identifying "healthcare deserts," areas with limited access to care, is essential for understanding the overall healthcare landscape. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), which often serve underserved populations, is another important consideration. These centers typically offer a range of services, including primary care, mental health, and social services, and play a critical role in ensuring equitable access to care.

The role of insurance coverage cannot be overlooked. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance, by primary care practices directly impacts access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse population. The cost of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and medication costs, also influences access. Practices that offer affordable care options and assistance with medication costs are better positioned to serve patients with limited financial resources.

The impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) must be considered. Factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, access to healthy food, and safe housing significantly influence health outcomes. Primary care practices that are aware of and address these SDOH are better equipped to provide effective care. This may involve connecting patients with social services, offering health education programs, and advocating for policies that promote health equity.

In conclusion, managing hypertension effectively in Florence, particularly within the 29506 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes ensuring adequate physician-to-patient ratios, promoting quality care through standout practices, embracing telemedicine, integrating mental health resources, and addressing the social determinants of health.

**Visualize the Healthcare Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, identify healthcare deserts, and visualize the availability of resources in Florence, South Carolina, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, enabling you to analyze physician density, access to care, and other relevant factors with unprecedented clarity. Use CartoChrome to identify areas with the greatest need and to make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.