29505, Florence, South Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 29505, Florence, South Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.45 percent of the residents in 29505 has some form of health insurance. 34.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.51 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 29505 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,329 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29505. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,183 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,960 health care providers accessible to residents in 29505, Florence, South Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Florence, SC (ZIP Code 29505)

Florence, South Carolina, specifically the ZIP code 29505, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access and quality. An "Overall Health Score" analysis requires a multi-faceted examination, considering physician availability, resource allocation, and innovative healthcare delivery models. This analysis aims to provide a granular assessment of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any health score rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is challenging to acquire publicly, data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provides a starting point. An unfavorable ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, would negatively impact the overall score. Residents may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and exacerbating existing health conditions. The analysis must account for this crucial element.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is significant. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving underserved pockets? This spatial analysis is vital. Access to care is not just about the total number of doctors but also about their geographic accessibility for all residents. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community health clinics can mitigate disparities, offering affordable care to vulnerable populations. Their existence and operational capacity would positively influence the score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, as measured by patient satisfaction surveys, positive health outcomes, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines, would significantly boost the overall score. These practices might be recognized for their commitment to preventative medicine, chronic disease management, or specialized services. This would involve reviewing publicly available data, such as Medicare quality ratings, and potentially incorporating patient testimonials, if available and ethically sourced.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine expands access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those seeking specialized consultations. The extent of telemedicine adoption by practices within 29505, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), would be a key determinant of the score. Practices actively embracing telehealth would be viewed favorably, while those lagging behind would be penalized.

Mental health resources are another critical component. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the ZIP code is paramount. Access to mental health services is often a significant barrier to overall well-being. The analysis must assess the number of mental health providers, their insurance acceptance, and the availability of specialized programs (e.g., substance abuse treatment, support groups). Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, facilitating integrated care, would be a positive indicator. The presence of crisis intervention services and emergency mental health support would also be considered.

Furthermore, the analysis must factor in the presence of hospitals and specialized medical facilities within or near the ZIP code. The proximity of a well-equipped hospital, offering a range of services from emergency care to specialized surgeries, is crucial for the overall health of the community. The quality of care provided by these facilities, as measured by patient outcomes and safety metrics, would also be a key consideration. Access to specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, would be a positive factor.

The demographics of the population within 29505 must also be considered. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) influence healthcare needs and resource allocation. The analysis must account for these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. For example, a high prevalence of diabetes would necessitate a greater focus on diabetes management programs and resources.

The analysis should also consider the availability of health education and preventative care programs. Initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs, weight management programs, and nutrition education, can significantly improve community health. The presence of these programs and their accessibility to residents would be a positive factor.

In conclusion, calculating an “Overall Health Score” for 29505 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various interconnected factors. Physician availability, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local hospitals and practices all contribute to the overall health of the community. A detailed analysis, incorporating data from multiple sources and considering the unique demographics of the area, is essential for a meaningful assessment. This score should not be a static number but a dynamic representation of the healthcare landscape, reflecting ongoing changes and improvements.

This analysis underscores the importance of understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources. To visualize and analyze this complex data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, visualize physician-to-patient ratios, and map the distribution of health resources.