28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.04 percent of the residents in 28338 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.90 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 28338 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 922 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28338. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 718 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,316 health care providers accessible to residents in 28338, Ellerbe, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ellerbe, NC (ZIP Code 28338)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Ellerbe, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors ranging from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of telemedicine and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will synthesize available data to generate an estimated "Overall Health Score" for the community, recognizing the inherent limitations of data availability in a rural setting. This score, while not a definitive metric, aims to provide a valuable snapshot of the health environment.

The foundation of any health assessment begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In the context of Ellerbe (ZIP Code 28338), this metric is critical. Rural communities often face significant challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. The exact physician-to-patient ratio is difficult to ascertain precisely without access to real-time, proprietary data. However, based on publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, it is reasonable to assume that the ratio in Ellerbe likely falls below the national average. This suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern healthcare practices. While specific practice names are not directly cited due to data limitations, we can infer general trends. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient communication are likely to receive positive feedback from the community. The presence of on-site labs, radiology services, and specialized care options (e.g., diabetes education) also contribute to a higher quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for routine check-ups, medication management, and mental health counseling, can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, reduce travel time and costs, and allow patients to connect with healthcare providers more easily. The degree to which practices in Ellerbe have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals, will influence the overall health score. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine are likely to demonstrate a higher level of patient-centered care and responsiveness to community needs.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical factor in assessing the health of a community. Rural areas often face shortages of mental health professionals, leading to limited access to care and increased wait times. The presence of mental health clinics, partnerships with local hospitals, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices are all positive indicators. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives related to mental health can significantly improve the well-being of the community. The degree to which Ellerbe has access to these resources directly impacts the overall health score.

Considering these factors, we can begin to formulate an estimated "Overall Health Score" for Ellerbe (ZIP Code 28338). Due to the lack of precise data, this score is an approximation. Based on the likely physician-to-patient ratio, the potential challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, and the potential limitations in mental health resources, the score is likely to be below the state and national averages. However, the score can be improved by focusing on targeted interventions. These interventions may include initiatives to attract and retain primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing access to mental health services.

Improvements in the health landscape are not solely the responsibility of healthcare providers. Community involvement, including patient education, support groups, and public health initiatives, also play a crucial role. Local organizations, schools, and churches can collaborate to promote healthy lifestyles, raise awareness about health issues, and support access to care. The collective effort of the community will determine the overall health score.

In conclusion, evaluating the health landscape in Ellerbe reveals both strengths and challenges. While the precise "Overall Health Score" is difficult to quantify without comprehensive data, it is reasonable to assume that the community faces challenges related to physician access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability. Targeted interventions and collaborative efforts are essential to improve the health and well-being of the residents. The health score can be improved by focusing on these key areas.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ellerbe, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed, interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. Explore the CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper insight into the healthcare resources available in Ellerbe and surrounding areas.