28403, Wilmington, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.41 percent of the residents in 28403 has some form of health insurance. 24.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 28403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28403. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,082 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,878 health care providers accessible to residents in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28403)

Analyzing the overall health score for residents of Wilmington, NC, specifically within the 28403 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician availability, the quality and accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. These factors, when combined, offer a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape and the overall health score for this specific area.

One of the most critical components of a health score is the physician-to-patient ratio. In the 28403 area, this ratio is a significant indicator of access to care. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, Wilmington, like many growing coastal communities, faces challenges related to physician supply. The influx of new residents often strains existing resources. Researching the current ratio within 28403 reveals a need for more primary care physicians, as well as specialists. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment. The impact is felt most acutely by vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions.

Primary care availability is another critical area. Access to a consistent primary care physician is essential for preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall well-being. The availability of primary care physicians in 28403 is a mix of established practices and newer clinics. Some practices are accepting new patients, while others are experiencing high patient volumes, limiting their ability to serve all those in need. The quality of primary care also varies, with some practices offering comprehensive services, including on-site labs and specialized programs, while others may have more limited resources. Evaluating the quality of care requires considering factors such as patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes, and the availability of specialized services.

Identifying standout practices within the 28403 area is important. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, and a commitment to community health. These practices often have higher patient satisfaction ratings, lower readmission rates, and a proactive approach to preventative care. Researching online reviews, speaking with local residents, and examining data from healthcare rating organizations are crucial to identifying these standout practices. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, driving overall improvements in the quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare access, particularly in areas like Wilmington. Telemedicine offers patients the convenience of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The 28403 area has seen an increase in telemedicine adoption, with many primary care practices and specialists offering virtual appointments. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who find it difficult to travel to in-person appointments. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine is dependent on factors such as internet access, digital literacy, and the availability of appropriate technology.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in the 28403 area are important. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. The area may face challenges in this area, including a shortage of mental health professionals and long wait times for appointments. Community resources, such as mental health clinics, non-profit organizations, and support groups, can help fill some of the gaps. Examining the presence of these resources, their capacity to serve the community, and their integration with primary care practices is crucial for a complete health score assessment.

The overall health score for the 28403 area is a complex equation, influenced by the interplay of these factors. While Wilmington, and the 28403 area specifically, has strengths, such as the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and the increasing adoption of telemedicine, it also faces challenges, including physician shortages, the need for improved mental health resources, and the need to ensure equitable access to care for all residents. The overall score is a reflection of the community's collective efforts to promote health and well-being.

The ongoing evolution of healthcare requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. Regular assessments of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are crucial. Furthermore, efforts to address physician shortages, improve access to mental health services, and promote preventative care are essential for improving the overall health score of the 28403 area. These are not static metrics; they are dynamic, constantly evolving in response to population growth, technological advancements, and changes in healthcare policies.

Understanding these nuances is critical for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The health score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's health and well-being. It underscores the need for continuous improvement and investment in healthcare resources to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, including the 28403 area, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the area's healthcare infrastructure.