28412, Wilmington, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 28412 has some form of health insurance. 33.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.15 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 28412 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28412. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,928 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28412) & Primary Care Availability

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Wilmington, North Carolina's 28412 ZIP code and assessing the availability of primary care necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, acknowledging the complexities inherent in such an evaluation.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially strain the healthcare system, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially impacting the quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to physicians, which can contribute to improved patient outcomes. Analyzing data specific to 28412 requires meticulous research, comparing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code to the resident population. This data must be compared against regional and national averages to provide context. Furthermore, the specialty distribution within the physician pool is important. A balanced mix of general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians is crucial for comprehensive primary care.

Several medical practices within 28412 likely stand out for their commitment to patient care, innovation, and community engagement. Identifying these "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are critical indicators. Examining online platforms, such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, offers valuable insights into patient experiences. Furthermore, assessing the practice's adoption of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, indicates a commitment to efficiency and patient communication. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as free clinics or health education programs, demonstrate a broader commitment to the overall well-being of the population.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services via technology, has rapidly gained prominence, particularly in the wake of recent global events. Its impact on primary care availability in 28412 is significant. Telemedicine can expand access to care, especially for patients in rural areas, those with mobility limitations, or those who find it difficult to travel. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the ZIP code involves identifying which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on traditional in-person appointments.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health, yet often under-resourced. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in 28412 requires examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and other mental health professionals. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the ZIP code involves evaluating the number of mental health professionals actively practicing, their specialties, and the types of services they offer. Moreover, the presence of mental health clinics, counseling centers, and support groups is essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to mental health specialists, is a positive indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Ultimately, calculating an 'Overall Health Score' requires synthesizing the data from the above categories. The physician-to-patient ratio, the prominence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. The score should be benchmarked against regional and national averages to provide a meaningful comparison. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more robust healthcare infrastructure, and a greater focus on preventative care and overall patient well-being. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to mental health services, or a lack of technological integration.

The assessment should not be a static evaluation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and delivery models emerging regularly. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the 'Overall Health Score.' Furthermore, the analysis should identify areas for improvement and suggest strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the residents of 28412. This could include recommendations for recruiting more physicians, expanding telemedicine services, increasing access to mental health resources, and promoting community health initiatives.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for primary care availability in Wilmington's 28412 ZIP code is a complex metric that requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. By carefully evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources, a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape can be achieved. This information is invaluable for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike, helping them make informed decisions and work towards a healthier community.

Want to visualize the health landscape of Wilmington, NC, and explore these metrics geographically? CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and data-rich visualization of healthcare resources, physician locations, and population demographics, allowing for a deeper understanding of the health disparities and opportunities within the region.