28342, Falcon, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 54.42 percent of the residents in 28342 has some form of health insurance. 17.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.58 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 28342 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28342. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,616 health care providers accessible to residents in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Falcon, NC (ZIP Code 28342)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28342, encompassing the town of Falcon, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive review aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for residents of this specific area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon accessible primary care. In Falcon, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the precise number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code is the initial step. This number, however, must be considered in relation to the population of Falcon.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher number of physicians per resident, generally translates to better access to care and shorter wait times. Conversely, a low ratio may signal a shortage of primary care providers, potentially leading to delayed appointments and reduced access to preventative care. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark for comparison, helping to contextualize the situation in Falcon.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing practices are essential. Identifying standout medical practices within the area involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records often contribute positively to the overall health score. These practices are crucial for providing comprehensive and convenient healthcare.

Telemedicine adoption represents a modern approach to healthcare delivery, particularly beneficial in rural areas like Falcon. The ability to access virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online health information can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing far from a physical clinic. Assessing the extent to which local primary care providers have embraced telemedicine is a key component of the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community is crucial. Assessing the presence of mental health clinics, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups are important factors. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a particularly positive indicator, promoting a holistic approach to patient care.

Further, the presence of specialized care, such as geriatric medicine or pediatric care, can also influence the health score. Considering the demographics of the population within Falcon, the availability of specialized services that cater to the specific needs of the community can have a significant impact.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Falcon, NC (ZIP code 28342) is not a static number. It is an assessment that considers the interplay of various factors. While the precise score requires detailed data collection and analysis, the following general categories can be used to evaluate the health of the community.

**Category 1: Access to Care (Weight: 30%)**

* Physician-to-patient ratio: The closer the ratio is to the national average, the better.
* Wait times for appointments: Shorter wait times are a positive indicator.
* Insurance acceptance: The acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans enhances accessibility.
* Availability of after-hours care: Access to care outside of regular business hours is crucial.

**Category 2: Quality of Care (Weight: 30%)**

* Patient satisfaction: Positive patient reviews and testimonials are indicators of quality.
* Accreditation status: Accreditation by recognized organizations demonstrates a commitment to quality.
* Range of services offered: A comprehensive range of services indicates a well-rounded practice.
* Use of electronic health records: This promotes better care coordination and efficiency.

**Category 3: Telemedicine and Technology Adoption (Weight: 20%)**

* Availability of virtual consultations: The ability to access care remotely improves access.
* Use of patient portals: These portals empower patients to manage their health information.
* Remote monitoring capabilities: These capabilities can help manage chronic conditions.

**Category 4: Mental Health Resources (Weight: 20%)**

* Availability of mental health professionals: The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential.
* Integration with primary care: Integrated services promote holistic care.
* Availability of support groups: These groups provide valuable resources for patients.
* Acceptance of insurance: The acceptance of insurance makes services more accessible.

Based on these categories, a preliminary assessment can be made. If the physician-to-patient ratio is low, wait times are long, and mental health resources are scarce, the 'Overall Health Score' will be lower. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, readily available appointments, and robust mental health support would contribute to a higher score. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of high-quality practices would also positively influence the score.

To gain a more precise understanding of the health landscape in Falcon, NC (ZIP code 28342), it is essential to gather specific data on each of these factors. This requires comprehensive data collection, including surveying local medical practices, analyzing patient reviews, and assessing the availability of mental health services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Falcon, and to explore the data discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data. This can provide a clearer understanding of the healthcare resources available in the community.