28152, Shelby, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.20 percent of the residents in 28152 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.00 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 28152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,338 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,110 health care providers accessible to residents in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the medical landscape within Shelby, North Carolina (ZIP code 28152), focusing on primary care availability and related factors. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem, enabling informed decisions for residents and stakeholders.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Shelby, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric, calculated by dividing the population by the number of primary care physicians, offers a preliminary indication of access. A lower ratio generally suggests better access, while a higher ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, combined with local healthcare provider information, are essential for calculating an accurate ratio specific to 28152. This data is dynamic and requires continuous monitoring.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and capacity of individual practices significantly impact the overall health score. Several practices in Shelby are likely to stand out based on their reputation, services offered, and patient reviews. Assessing these practices involves examining factors like the range of services (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized care), the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments, and the use of technology to enhance patient experience. Practices with a strong focus on patient education, preventative care, and efficient appointment scheduling will contribute positively to the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely using technology, has the potential to significantly improve access, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The extent to which practices in Shelby have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the convenience and accessibility of care. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow can improve patient engagement and reduce the burden on traditional in-office visits.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health services within Shelby are crucial for a comprehensive health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health clinics. The integration of mental healthcare within primary care settings, where physicians can screen for and address mental health concerns, is particularly beneficial. Assessing the availability of these resources, along with the insurance acceptance policies of mental health providers, is essential for a complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

Furthermore, the integration and coordination of care are important. Does the healthcare system in Shelby facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers? The existence of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for the sharing of patient information can improve care coordination and reduce medical errors. Practices that prioritize care coordination and communication contribute to a higher overall health score.

The specific demographics of Shelby also play a role. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and health disparities within the community influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding these demographics is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population. For example, a community with a large elderly population might benefit from increased geriatric care services, while a community with a high prevalence of chronic diseases might require more resources for disease management.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and analysis are necessary to track changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors. This ongoing monitoring allows for identifying areas of strength and weakness, informing strategic planning, and ensuring that the healthcare system effectively meets the needs of the community.

The effectiveness of public health initiatives also influences the overall health score. Programs focused on preventative care, health education, and disease prevention can significantly improve community health outcomes. The presence and impact of these initiatives should be considered when evaluating the healthcare landscape.

The economic factors also play a role. The affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, is a significant barrier to access for many individuals. The availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans by healthcare providers contribute to the overall health score.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Shelby, NC (ZIP code 28152) requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of medical practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, examining mental health resources, and considering demographic and economic factors are all essential. A comprehensive analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape, enabling informed decisions and promoting a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shelby, including the locations of medical practices, physician density, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed and insightful view of the healthcare ecosystem, aiding in your understanding and decision-making process.