28344, Godwin, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28344, Godwin, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.91 percent of the residents in 28344 has some form of health insurance. 51.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.78 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 28344 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,719 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28344. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 805 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,050 health care providers accessible to residents in 28344, Godwin, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Godwin, NC (ZIP Code 28344)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the availability and quality of primary care services within Godwin, North Carolina (ZIP code 28344). The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

Godwin, a small town in Cumberland County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area can impact access to care, and the demographics of the population influence the types of services most needed. This analysis aims to paint a clear picture of the current situation.

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

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, often signals potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Determining the exact ratio for ZIP code 28344 requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it is likely that Godwin faces a lower physician density compared to more urban centers.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a cornerstone of preventative medicine and overall health. PCPs act as the first point of contact for most healthcare needs, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. Limited PCP availability can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency room visits, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The analysis must ascertain the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable driving distance. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and potentially, nurse practitioners and physician assistants who provide primary care services. Examining the acceptance of new patients by these providers is also crucial. Practices that are consistently full or have long wait times further exacerbate access challenges.

**Standout Medical Practices: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Identifying standout medical practices requires a nuanced approach. This involves evaluating factors beyond the mere presence of a physician. Considerations include the range of services offered, the quality of care provided, and patient satisfaction.

A key aspect is the practice's commitment to preventative care. Does the practice actively promote screenings, vaccinations, and health education? Another factor is the adoption of technology. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient care, improve communication, and facilitate information sharing? The availability of on-site laboratory services and imaging capabilities can also significantly enhance convenience for patients.

Conversely, weaknesses might include limited hours of operation, a lack of specialized services, or negative patient reviews. Thoroughly researching the reputation of practices, including patient testimonials and reviews, is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Godwin. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely via video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available locally.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in ZIP code 28344 is a crucial factor. Are practices offering virtual visits? Are they using secure platforms to protect patient privacy? The availability of telemedicine can significantly reduce travel time and costs for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

The analysis should also consider the types of telemedicine services offered. Are providers offering virtual urgent care, mental health counseling, or chronic disease management programs? The more comprehensive the telemedicine offerings, the greater the potential for improved healthcare access and outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. Access to mental health services is particularly important in rural communities, where factors like social isolation and limited access to resources can exacerbate mental health challenges.

The analysis must assess the availability of mental health providers in and around Godwin. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and licensed professional counselors (LPCs). The presence of mental health clinics, counseling centers, and support groups is also a positive indicator.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a critical factor. Does the practice offer on-site mental health counseling, or does it have established referral pathways to mental health specialists? The ability to address mental health needs alongside physical health concerns can lead to more holistic and effective care.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion**

Based on the assessment of these factors, an overall health score can be assigned to the primary care landscape in ZIP code 28344. This score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses identified, providing a concise summary of the healthcare environment. The score should be presented in a clear and understandable format, perhaps using a rating scale or a summary narrative.

The analysis should also include recommendations for improvement. This might include suggestions for increasing the number of primary care providers, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing access to mental health resources.

The final step is to visualize the data. CartoChrome maps can transform this complex data into an easily understood visual representation. They can map the locations of healthcare providers, highlight areas with limited access, and illustrate the distribution of resources.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Godwin, NC (ZIP code 28344) and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use them to analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas where improvements are most needed.