28147, Salisbury, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28147, Salisbury, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.49 percent of the residents in 28147 has some form of health insurance. 39.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.78 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 28147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,970 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,790 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,321 health care providers accessible to residents in 28147, Salisbury, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Salisbury, NC (ZIP Code 28147)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Salisbury, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28147 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key areas impacting health outcomes, including physician availability, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will then synthesize these factors into an overall health score assessment. This score, however, should be viewed as an approximation, as a comprehensive evaluation would necessitate granular data beyond the scope of this analysis.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most fundamental indicators of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to delayed care, increased wait times, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Determining the exact ratio within 28147 requires access to real-time, verified data, often proprietary to healthcare analytics firms. However, publicly available information from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to approximate this metric. Census data provides population figures, while state health directories can be used to identify practicing physicians within the ZIP code.

Primary care availability is a critical component of this assessment. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the first point of contact for healthcare, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. A shortage of PCPs can strain the healthcare system, leading to increased reliance on emergency rooms for non-emergency conditions. The presence of urgent care clinics and their operating hours also contribute to the overall primary care landscape.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout medical practices involves evaluating several factors. Reputation, patient reviews, and the presence of specialized services all play a role. Hospitals, like Novant Health Rowan Medical Center, located in Salisbury, are key players in the healthcare ecosystem. Their accreditations, the range of services offered, and patient satisfaction scores are crucial indicators. The presence of specialized clinics, such as those focusing on cardiology, oncology, or women's health, also contributes to the overall quality of care available within the community.

Furthermore, the integration of technology within these practices is increasingly important. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate better communication and coordination of care. The use of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical information and communicate with their providers, enhances patient engagement. The adoption of evidence-based practices and adherence to clinical guidelines also contribute to the quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within 28147 is a key factor in our overall health score. Telemedicine expands access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education programs can significantly improve health outcomes.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires evaluating the number of practices offering virtual visits, the types of services available through telemedicine, and the patient utilization rates. The accessibility of technology, including internet access and digital literacy, also impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives. The integration of telemedicine into existing healthcare systems is a critical factor in its long-term sustainability.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources within 28147 are crucial to the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important.

Factors such as insurance coverage for mental health services, the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, and the geographic distribution of mental health providers impact access. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The existence of programs addressing substance abuse and addiction is also a significant factor.

**Synthesizing the Factors: Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Synthesizing these factors into an overall health score requires assigning weights to each category based on its relative importance. Physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability are likely to be weighted heavily, as they are fundamental to access to care. The quality of care, including the presence of standout practices and the adoption of technology, would also be weighted significantly. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resource availability would also contribute to the score.

A final score would be expressed on a scale, such as a percentage or a numerical rating. This score, however, would represent an approximation based on the available data and the weighting system used. Regular updates and refinements to the data and the scoring methodology would be necessary to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the assessment. The overall health score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness within the community's healthcare system.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the overall health of a community requires a comprehensive understanding of its healthcare infrastructure, resources, and access to care. While this analysis provides an overview of the key factors impacting health outcomes within Salisbury, NC (ZIP code 28147), a deeper dive into specific data points is essential for a more accurate and nuanced assessment. For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including the geographic distribution of providers and the availability of resources, consider exploring the powerful mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.