28444, Harrells, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28444, Harrells, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 28444 has some form of health insurance. 41.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.76 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 28444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 466 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 153 health care providers accessible to residents in 28444, Harrells, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Harrells, NC (ZIP Code 28444)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Harrells, North Carolina, and its surrounding ZIP code (28444) requires a multifaceted analysis. This evaluation will consider factors such as physician availability, the presence of primary care providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will strive to paint a comprehensive picture of the health ecosystem, offering insights into its strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Harrells, the density of primary care providers is a crucial metric. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a snapshot of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential challenges in managing chronic conditions. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 28444 is essential for a precise assessment. Publicly available resources, such as data from the US Department of Health & Human Services or state-level health departments, are vital for obtaining this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care providers is also important. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? The geographic distribution of providers, whether they accept new patients, and their hours of operation significantly impact access. The existence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can be a positive indicator, offering services to underserved populations. These centers often provide comprehensive care, including primary care, behavioral health, and dental services.

Identifying standout practices is a key aspect of this analysis. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative practices. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficient care and patient engagement. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available quality data (if available) can help identify practices that consistently deliver high-quality care. The presence of specialists, even if not primary care, within a reasonable distance is another factor to consider.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine services by primary care providers in 28444 can greatly enhance access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Assessing the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the ease of use of telehealth platforms are all critical components of this analysis.

Mental health resources are another critical element of a comprehensive healthcare system. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. Evaluating the number of mental health providers, their geographic distribution, and the types of services they offer is crucial. The presence of mental health support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers are positive indicators.

Furthermore, access to substance abuse treatment services should be evaluated. The availability of treatment centers, support groups, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs is a critical component of addressing the opioid crisis and other substance use disorders. Collaboration between primary care providers and substance abuse treatment centers can improve patient outcomes.

The overall health score for Harrells, NC (ZIP Code 28444) is a composite measure. It will be influenced by the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a strong primary care infrastructure, readily available mental health services, and the widespread adoption of telemedicine. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, limited mental health resources, and a lack of telemedicine adoption. The specific numerical score depends on the weighting assigned to each factor.

The analysis must also consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing conditions can significantly impact health outcomes. Understanding these factors provides a more complete picture of the health landscape. Data on poverty rates, unemployment, and housing quality in 28444 should be incorporated into the assessment.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of providers or the availability of resources. Patient experience is paramount. Measuring patient satisfaction, assessing the cultural competence of providers, and ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to all members of the community are essential components of a high-quality healthcare system.

The analysis should also consider the impact of healthcare policy and funding on the availability and quality of care. Changes in federal or state healthcare policies can significantly impact access to care, insurance coverage, and the financial stability of healthcare providers. Understanding the local healthcare landscape requires a thorough understanding of the relevant policies and funding mechanisms.

The final overall health score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated and reassessed to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new providers enter the area, telemedicine adoption increases, or mental health resources become more available, the score should be adjusted accordingly.

To fully visualize and analyze the health landscape of Harrells, NC (ZIP Code 28444), including provider locations, patient demographics, and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the health ecosystem.