29501, Florence, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29501, Florence, South Carolina is 60 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.

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

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Florence, South Carolina, specifically within the 29501 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not just the raw numbers of physicians, but also the accessibility of care, the presence of innovative healthcare delivery models, and the availability of crucial support services like mental health resources. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, taking into account these factors to paint a comprehensive picture of the community's health.

One of the primary indicators of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available information often indicates a potential challenge in Florence. The ratio, comparing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population, can reveal whether the community is adequately served. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, often suggests longer wait times for appointments, potential difficulty in establishing a patient-physician relationship, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. This factor, coupled with the overall population health needs of the area, including the prevalence of chronic diseases, will significantly influence the 'Overall Health Score'.

The availability of primary care is a cornerstone of a healthy community. Primary care physicians act as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The accessibility of these services, including the presence of walk-in clinics, urgent care centers, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, is critical. Geographical barriers, such as the distance to the nearest PCP, and transportation limitations can further exacerbate access issues. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect the ease with which residents can obtain timely and appropriate primary care.

Beyond basic accessibility, the quality of care provided by individual practices is another crucial factor. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various aspects, including patient satisfaction, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the utilization of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs), offer online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are likely to score higher. The presence of practices that are nationally recognized for quality or have received specific accreditations also contributes positively to the overall assessment. These factors, when combined, provide a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within 29501.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in areas with potential physician shortages or geographical barriers. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations or online monitoring, can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and potentially lower healthcare costs. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations, offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up care, will be viewed favorably in this analysis. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect the extent to which telemedicine is utilized within the 29501 area.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health, and their availability significantly impacts the community's well-being. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, is essential for addressing mental health concerns, managing mental illnesses, and promoting emotional well-being. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within the 29501 area, as well as the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, will be carefully assessed. The 'Overall Health Score' will be influenced by the availability and accessibility of these critical resources.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology, also contributes to the overall health assessment. The availability of these specialists within the 29501 area, or the ease with which residents can access them in nearby locations, is a factor. The presence of hospitals, specialty clinics, and diagnostic centers will also be considered. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect the breadth and depth of healthcare services available to the community.

The health of a community is not solely dependent on the availability of medical professionals. It is also influenced by social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, safe housing, and educational opportunities. While this analysis focuses primarily on healthcare-related factors, it is important to acknowledge the influence of these broader social determinants on the overall health of the 29501 community. The 'Overall Health Score', therefore, provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, recognizing the complex interplay of factors that contribute to overall health.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 29501 and primary care availability in Florence will be a composite measure, weighing the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care accessibility, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The final score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, providing a valuable insight into the community's health status. This assessment will be a dynamic one, as healthcare is constantly evolving.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Florence, SC, and to explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, visit CartoChrome maps.