28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.94 percent of the residents in 28365 has some form of health insurance. 40.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.11 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 28365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Mount Olive, NC (ZIP Code 28365)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Mount Olive, North Carolina (ZIP code 28365) requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and community resources. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, focusing on key factors impacting residents' access to and quality of care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This directly impacts access to care. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time with physicians during visits, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, needs to be aggregated to determine the current ratio within the 28365 ZIP code. This data should differentiate between primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and other healthcare professionals. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians compared to urban centers. This can create disparities in access, requiring residents to travel further for specialized care.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The availability of primary care physicians is fundamental. PCPs serve as the entry point into the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Examining the number of PCPs, their practice models (e.g., solo practice, group practice, hospital-affiliated), and their acceptance of various insurance plans is crucial. Furthermore, assessing the age and experience of the PCPs in the area can reveal potential future shortages due to retirement. Factors like the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community clinics, which often serve underserved populations, must be considered. These clinics can help mitigate access issues, offering affordable care regardless of insurance status.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Infrastructure:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their quality of care, patient satisfaction, and adoption of innovative practices. This includes assessing factors like accreditation by recognized organizations (e.g., the Joint Commission), patient reviews and ratings, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination. The presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialized clinics (e.g., cardiology, dermatology) within or near the ZIP code also contributes to the overall health score. The availability of diagnostic services, such as imaging and laboratory testing, is also critical. The proximity of these facilities to residents can significantly impact their ability to receive timely and comprehensive care.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is essential. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, improve patient convenience, and potentially lower healthcare costs. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access, digital literacy, and the availability of appropriate technology for both patients and providers. Assessing these factors is key to understanding the impact of telemedicine on the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is often limited, especially in rural communities. Evaluating the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the 28365 ZIP code is essential. This includes assessing the number of providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of insurance plans. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services also contributes to the overall score. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a growing trend that can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

**Community Resources and Social Determinants of Health:**

Beyond direct medical care, community resources and social determinants of health significantly impact overall health. Factors like access to healthy food, safe housing, transportation, and educational opportunities play a crucial role. Assessing the presence of food banks, community gardens, affordable housing programs, and public transportation options provides a more comprehensive view of the health landscape. Collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations are crucial for addressing these social determinants and improving health outcomes.

**Data Sources and Methodology:**

Gathering the necessary data requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides valuable information. Additionally, data from professional organizations, such as the American Medical Association, and healthcare directories can be utilized. Patient reviews, practice websites, and direct outreach to local healthcare providers can also provide valuable insights. The methodology involves aggregating and analyzing this data, assigning weights to different factors based on their relative importance, and calculating an overall health score.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several challenges exist in conducting this analysis. Data availability can be a limitation, especially for specific metrics at the ZIP code level. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with practices opening, closing, and changing services, requires ongoing monitoring. Furthermore, subjective factors, such as patient satisfaction and the quality of care, can be difficult to quantify. Despite these challenges, a comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the health landscape of Mount Olive and informs efforts to improve healthcare access and quality for residents.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Mount Olive (ZIP code 28365) is a complex measure influenced by physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support systems. While a detailed score requires extensive data analysis, this assessment provides a framework for understanding the key factors that shape the health of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Mount Olive and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights and support informed decision-making related to healthcare access and resource allocation.