28159, Spencer, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28159, Spencer, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.46 percent of the residents in 28159 has some form of health insurance. 32.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.07 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 28159 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28159. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 410 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,627 health care providers accessible to residents in 28159, Spencer, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Spencer, NC (ZIP Code 28159)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Spencer, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28159) requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to assess not just the raw number of physicians, but also the quality of care, access to specialists, and the availability of crucial support services. This analysis will culminate in an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific locale. We will consider the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources.

The fundamental building block of any healthy community is the availability of primary care physicians. In Spencer, and the surrounding ZIP code 28159, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. National averages provide a benchmark, but local demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, significantly impact the actual need. A high ratio, meaning a larger number of patients per physician, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Further research is needed to determine the precise ratio within 28159, but it is a foundational element for our overall assessment. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and the US Census Bureau, will be crucial in establishing an accurate baseline.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We need to identify standout practices within the area. These are clinics or individual physicians who consistently receive high ratings from patients, demonstrate proficiency in managing chronic conditions, and actively participate in preventative care initiatives. Patient reviews, professional accolades, and accreditation status (e.g., from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance) all contribute to this assessment. Identifying these exemplary practices provides valuable insights into the best options for residents seeking primary care. We must also consider the range of services offered, including immunizations, health screenings, and chronic disease management programs.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or who live in rural areas. The extent to which physicians in 28159 have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of healthcare services. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow deserve recognition. This includes evaluating the ease of use of their platforms, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of telemedicine with existing patient records.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services, is essential. Assessing the mental health landscape involves evaluating the number of providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Are there enough providers to meet the community's needs? Are there any barriers to accessing mental healthcare, such as long wait times or limited insurance coverage? The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health professionals all contribute to a more robust mental health ecosystem.

Specialist availability is another factor to consider. While primary care forms the foundation of healthcare, access to specialists is crucial for managing complex medical conditions. The presence of specialists in areas like cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology within or near 28159 significantly enhances the overall health score. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of specialized diagnostic services all impact patient outcomes. We also need to consider the availability of emergency services and the proximity to hospitals with specialized care units.

The overall health score is not simply a numerical ranking; it is a holistic assessment. Factors such as community health initiatives, public health programs, and the availability of health education resources also play a role. The presence of local health fairs, community outreach programs, and access to information about healthy living practices contribute to a healthier community.

The socioeconomic factors of the community are also important. Income levels, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options can all impact health outcomes. Areas with higher rates of poverty and limited access to resources often face greater health challenges. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health score.

The assessment of the healthcare ecosystem within 28159 should also consider the use of electronic health records (EHRs). The adoption of EHRs facilitates better communication between providers, improves care coordination, and enhances the accuracy and accessibility of patient information. Practices that have successfully implemented EHRs and utilize them effectively contribute to a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system.

The final overall health score for Spencer, NC (ZIP Code 28159) will be a composite measure. It will be based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the access to specialists, and the presence of community health initiatives. This score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area, providing valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Spencer, NC (ZIP Code 28159), including the location of physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.