28345, Hamlet, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28345, Hamlet, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.06 percent of the residents in 28345 has some form of health insurance. 47.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.05 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 28345 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,506 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28345. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,803 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,464 health care providers accessible to residents in 28345, Hamlet, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28345 & Primary Care Availability in Hamlet, NC**

Assessing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28345, encompassing the town of Hamlet, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ evaluation, considering key factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility and quality for residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Hamlet, and the broader 28345 ZIP code, the ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural communities often experience a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban areas. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Further research into the specific number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the total population, is crucial for a precise calculation of this ratio. This data point is a cornerstone for understanding the overall health score.

Identifying standout medical practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews and comprehensive service offerings, would receive higher scores. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, or gastroenterologists, also contributes positively, as it reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care. The availability of after-hours care, whether through extended clinic hours or on-call services, is another significant factor, improving the convenience of care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability to access healthcare remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation limitations, or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to receive higher scores. The ease of use of these platforms, the technical support provided to patients, and the integration of telemedicine with existing medical records systems are also important considerations. The degree to which telemedicine is utilized within the community directly impacts the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key factor. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within the community contributes positively. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings, allowing for easier access to mental health screenings and treatment, is also a significant advantage. The availability of crisis intervention services, such as a local crisis hotline or mobile crisis unit, is crucial for addressing urgent mental health needs. The accessibility of these resources directly influences the overall health score.

The overall health score for doctors in 28345 and primary care availability in Hamlet is likely to be moderate, with room for improvement. The rural nature of the area suggests challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care. However, the presence of dedicated medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can positively influence the score.

To improve the overall health score, several steps can be taken. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is a priority. This can be achieved through financial incentives, loan repayment programs, and creating a supportive practice environment. Expanding telemedicine services, including offering a wider range of virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, can also enhance access to care. Increasing the availability of mental health resources, including expanding the number of mental health professionals and integrating mental health services into primary care settings, is also critical.

Furthermore, promoting community health initiatives, such as health education programs, preventative care screenings, and chronic disease management programs, can contribute to improving the overall health of the population. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system. The effectiveness of these initiatives will ultimately determine the trajectory of the overall health score.

The assessment of the overall health score is dynamic, requiring regular updates and analysis. Factors such as changes in population demographics, the arrival or departure of healthcare providers, the introduction of new technologies, and shifts in healthcare policies can all impact the score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the healthcare system meets the evolving needs of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28345 and Hamlet, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, the location of medical facilities, and the availability of various services. They can also be used to identify areas with limited access to care and to visualize the impact of healthcare initiatives.