28376, Raeford, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28376, Raeford, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.63 percent of the residents in 28376 has some form of health insurance. 33.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.82 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 28376 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28376. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,950 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,986 health care providers accessible to residents in 28376, Raeford, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Raeford, NC (ZIP Code 28376)

Raeford, North Carolina, nestled in Hoke County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the overall health score for this community requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This analysis will delve into physician availability, quality of care, access to mental health resources, and the adoption of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In ZIP Code 28376, the ratio might fluctuate based on various factors, including the presence of military personnel from nearby Fort Bragg and the overall population density of Raeford and the surrounding areas. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced individual attention. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside information from healthcare directories, is crucial to determine the precise ratio. This data should be compared to state and national averages to establish a benchmark for the community.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of a healthy community. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the first point of contact for healthcare needs, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The number of PCPs actively practicing in Raeford, their acceptance of new patients, and their insurance coverage are vital. Examining the distribution of these practices across the area is also necessary. Areas with limited primary care options may experience disparities in healthcare access, impacting the overall health score negatively.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors. This includes patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from organizations like the Joint Commission), and the scope of services offered. Practices that prioritize patient communication, utilize electronic health records efficiently, and have a demonstrated commitment to quality improvement often receive higher ratings. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs or women's health clinics, can significantly enhance a practice's overall value to the community. The integration of patient feedback mechanisms, such as patient satisfaction surveys, is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Raeford. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists and routine care. The availability of telehealth services within local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients (e.g., user-friendly platforms, insurance coverage) contribute to the overall health score. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are often better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide timely care.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall well-being, often overlooked in healthcare assessments. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing mental health needs. Evaluating the availability of these professionals in Raeford, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these resources (e.g., insurance coverage, wait times) is critical. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local schools and organizations can also enhance the community's mental health infrastructure. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, a growing trend, can also improve access and reduce stigma.

The overall health score for Raeford, NC (28376) is a complex calculation. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors; it requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The data must be continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

Analyzing the health score also requires understanding the demographics of Raeford. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can impact healthcare needs and access. A community with a large elderly population may require more geriatric care, while a community with a high rate of poverty may face challenges in accessing affordable healthcare.

The presence of military personnel and their families in the area also has a significant impact. The military healthcare system, including facilities like Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg, provides healthcare services to active-duty military members and their dependents. This can influence the demand for healthcare services in the civilian community and the overall physician-to-patient ratio.

Furthermore, the health score should consider the presence of public health initiatives and programs. These can include health education campaigns, disease prevention programs, and community outreach efforts. The effectiveness of these programs in improving health outcomes can significantly contribute to the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Raeford, NC (28376) is a dynamic measure that reflects the complex interplay of various factors. It is not a static number but rather a snapshot in time. Continuous monitoring, data analysis, and community engagement are necessary to ensure that the healthcare needs of the residents are being met. The ongoing availability of primary care physicians, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are critical for improving the health and well-being of the community.