28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.73 percent of the residents in 28445 has some form of health insurance. 29.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.14 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 28445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,568 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 781 health care providers accessible to residents in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Holly Ridge, NC (ZIP Code 28445)

Assessing the overall health landscape within the Holly Ridge, North Carolina ZIP code of 28445 requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. We will synthesize this information to provide an estimated 'Overall Health Score' for residents. While a precise numerical score is impossible without proprietary data, this analysis aims to paint a clear picture of the community's healthcare access and quality.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A crucial element of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Holly Ridge, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. While specific figures fluctuate, a general assessment suggests a potential challenge. Rural areas often face shortages, and Holly Ridge, though experiencing growth, still presents characteristics of a less densely populated region. This means residents might encounter longer wait times for appointments or need to travel further to access primary care. The impact of this ratio extends beyond simple convenience. It can affect preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall health outcomes.

The availability of primary care, specifically, is paramount. PCPs serve as the entry point into the healthcare system, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and the management of common illnesses. A shortage of PCPs can lead to increased reliance on emergency rooms for non-emergency conditions, driving up healthcare costs and potentially worsening health outcomes. The geographic distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is also a key consideration. Are they clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Holly Ridge underserved?

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of technology. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and have a strong focus on preventative care often stand out. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as diabetes management programs or women's health clinics, can significantly enhance the overall health score.

The quality of care provided by these practices is also essential. This includes the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the use of evidence-based medicine, and the overall patient experience. Practices that foster a positive and supportive environment are more likely to attract and retain patients, leading to better health outcomes. We'll look for practices with accreditations, positive online ratings, and a demonstrated commitment to community health initiatives.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within Holly Ridge practices is a key indicator of the community's health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer patients the convenience of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

The level of telemedicine integration varies. Some practices might offer basic video consultations, while others utilize more sophisticated platforms for remote patient monitoring and chronic disease management. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or limited time. Furthermore, it can connect patients with specialists, reducing the need for travel and potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and treatment.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources significantly impacts the community's health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. The accessibility of these resources, both in terms of physical location and affordability, is crucial.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also important. This allows for early identification and treatment of mental health conditions, reducing stigma and improving patient outcomes. The availability of crisis intervention services and support for individuals struggling with substance abuse are also vital components of a comprehensive mental health system. We will assess the number of mental health professionals practicing within the area, the range of services offered, and the availability of support groups and community programs.

**Overall Health Score Estimation:**

Based on the factors discussed, estimating an 'Overall Health Score' for Holly Ridge (ZIP Code 28445) is possible. Considering the potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and primary care access, the score might be moderate. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources could elevate the score. The final score will be influenced by the specific characteristics of the healthcare providers and the availability of resources within the community. Areas for improvement might include increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape of Holly Ridge requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the community's health score and identifying areas for improvement. To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare environment in Holly Ridge, and to visually explore the distribution of healthcare providers, consider utilizing the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.