28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28016 has some form of health insurance. 37.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.77 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 28016 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,649 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 15 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28016. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,174 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,482 health care providers accessible to residents in 28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bessemer City (ZIP Code 28016)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the healthcare landscape within Bessemer City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28016), focusing on primary care availability and the quality of medical services offered by physicians practicing within the area. The assessment incorporates factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem in Bessemer City, allowing residents to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of residents served by each primary care physician (PCP). A high ratio can indicate a shortage of doctors, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased strain on existing medical professionals. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to obtain publicly, data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer valuable insights. Analyzing this data, alongside information about the population size of Bessemer City, allows for an estimation of the ratio. Any analysis must account for the surrounding areas, as residents may seek care outside of the immediate ZIP code.

Identifying "standout practices" requires an evaluation of several factors. These include patient reviews, the quality of care provided, the breadth of services offered, and the overall patient experience. Practices with a strong reputation often demonstrate excellence in areas such as preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient communication. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Examining the presence of board-certified physicians, the use of advanced medical technologies, and affiliations with larger healthcare systems can also help identify practices that are committed to providing high-quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical care remotely, offering convenience and potentially reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for residents in rural or underserved areas, as it can improve access to specialists and reduce travel time. Assessing the telemedicine landscape involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. Examining the types of services offered via telehealth, the ease of use of the platforms, and the insurance coverage for these services are all essential considerations.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is crucial for addressing mental health conditions and promoting overall health. Evaluating the mental health resources available in Bessemer City involves identifying the presence of mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Assessing the availability of these services, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the presence of support groups or community mental health programs are all important factors in determining the accessibility of mental health care.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The impact of healthcare legislation and policy changes must also be considered. Changes in insurance coverage, reimbursement rates, and regulations can significantly impact the availability and affordability of healthcare services. Staying informed about these developments is crucial for understanding the current state of healthcare in Bessemer City and anticipating future trends.

Furthermore, the demographics of Bessemer City play a significant role in shaping the healthcare needs of the community. Factors such as age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the demand for specific healthcare services. Understanding the demographic profile of the population allows for a more targeted assessment of healthcare needs and the effectiveness of existing resources.

The quality of care provided by physicians in Bessemer City is a key factor in the overall health score. This involves evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the quality of the medical facilities, and the patient outcomes. Data from sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board can provide information about physician licensing and disciplinary actions. Patient satisfaction surveys and outcome data can offer insights into the quality of care provided.

The availability of specialized care is another important consideration. While primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for most patients, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is essential for addressing complex medical conditions. Assessing the availability of specialized care involves identifying the presence of specialists in the area, the types of services they offer, and the ease of access to their services.

The overall health score for Bessemer City, ZIP Code 28016, is a dynamic assessment that requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. The factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided, are all critical components of this assessment. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bessemer City, and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps provide a dynamic and visually engaging way to analyze healthcare data, allowing users to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in healthcare access and quality.