28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.37 percent of the residents in 28431 has some form of health insurance. 49.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.67 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 28431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28431. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,255 health care providers accessible to residents in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28431 and Primary Care Availability in Chadbourn**

Analyzing the health landscape of a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of healthcare within ZIP code 28431, encompassing the broader context of Chadbourn, North Carolina, with a focus on primary care access. The goal is to generate an 'Overall Health Score' based on several key factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the region's healthcare strengths and weaknesses.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator**

One of the most fundamental metrics in evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the number of physicians available to serve a given population. In areas with a low physician-to-patient ratio, access to care can be significantly limited, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential difficulties in securing timely medical attention. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 28431 and Chadbourn, NC, is crucial data to assess. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local hospital systems should be consulted. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, would negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'. Conversely, a higher ratio would contribute positively.

**Primary Care Availability: The Foundation of Healthcare**

Primary care forms the bedrock of a robust healthcare system. It provides preventative care, manages chronic conditions, and serves as the initial point of contact for most medical needs. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, is therefore a critical factor. The analysis must examine the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP code 28431 and the surrounding areas, including Chadbourn. The distance patients must travel to access primary care, the acceptance of new patients by local practices, and the availability of same-day or walk-in appointments all contribute to the assessment. Limited access to primary care would significantly detract from the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence**

Within any healthcare landscape, certain practices often stand out for their commitment to quality care, patient satisfaction, and innovative approaches. Identifying these 'standout practices' is crucial for a more granular analysis. This involves researching local physician reviews, patient testimonials, and data on quality metrics such as patient outcomes and adherence to clinical guidelines. Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on patient-centered care, offer extended hours, or utilize advanced technologies would be recognized. The presence of such practices would positively influence the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging Geographic Barriers**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who face geographic barriers or transportation challenges. The analysis must assess the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by physicians in ZIP code 28431 and the surrounding areas. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine would receive positive consideration, improving the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing a Critical Need**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is crucial. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the region. This includes the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics and support groups. The presence of comprehensive mental health services, including access to crisis intervention and substance abuse treatment, would positively impact the 'Overall Health Score'. Conversely, a lack of mental health resources would significantly detract from the score.

**Specifics for ZIP Code 28431 and Chadbourn**

To provide a concrete 'Overall Health Score,' specific data must be gathered and analyzed. For ZIP code 28431, this would involve identifying the number of physicians practicing within the zip code, their specialties, and their acceptance of new patients. Similarly, it is essential to determine the number of primary care physicians in Chadbourn, their patient load, and their accessibility. Researching local hospital systems, such as Columbus Regional Healthcare, and community health centers for their services and patient satisfaction scores will be vital. The adoption of telemedicine, including virtual consultations and online patient portals, should be assessed. Finally, the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, must be investigated.

**Overall Health Score: Synthesis and Conclusion**

The 'Overall Health Score' is a composite measure, integrating all the factors discussed above. The final score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28431 and the context of Chadbourn. The score will be based on the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with good access to care, while a low score would indicate areas for improvement.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper, visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28431 and Chadbourn, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Explore the power of visual data to understand the nuances of healthcare access and availability.