28448, Kelly, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28448, Kelly, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.76 percent of the residents in 28448 has some form of health insurance. 45.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.87 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 28448 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28448. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 161 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 28448, Kelly, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Kelly, NC (ZIP Code 28448)

Assessing the overall health landscape within the Kelly, North Carolina (ZIP code 28448) area requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of doctors but also the accessibility, quality, and breadth of healthcare services. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and identify any standout practices within the community. This will culminate in an "Overall Health Score" assessment.

The fundamental building block of a healthy community is readily accessible primary care. The presence of primary care physicians directly impacts preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall well-being. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians practicing within the 28448 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available databases, insurance provider directories, and local community resources are essential tools for this initial investigation. The number of primary care physicians must then be compared to the population of Kelly to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality and reputation of the practices are crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., from the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the range of services offered. Does the practice offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits? These factors significantly impact accessibility and patient satisfaction. Furthermore, it is important to evaluate the practice's integration with the broader healthcare ecosystem. Does the practice readily share patient information with specialists and hospitals? Do they participate in value-based care models that prioritize quality over quantity?

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Kelly is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Investigating which primary care practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, chronic disease management), and the ease of use for patients is crucial. The availability of reliable internet access within the community also plays a significant role in the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the 28448 ZIP code is paramount. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are these resources readily accessible, or are there long wait times for appointments? Are there support groups or community mental health programs available? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator, as it can facilitate early identification and treatment of mental health conditions.

The presence of specialized care, such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology, is also a factor, although primary care availability is more critical. The presence of specialists within the immediate area is ideal, but proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Wilmington can also influence the overall health score. Transportation options to these centers are also a factor to consider.

After gathering and analyzing all this information, an “Overall Health Score” can be assigned. This score is not a simple number but a composite assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Kelly. A high score would indicate a strong primary care base, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, robust mental health resources, and a reputation for quality care. A lower score would indicate challenges in one or more of these areas.

The analysis might reveal that Kelly has a sufficient number of primary care physicians but lacks readily available mental health services. Or, it might reveal that telemedicine adoption is low due to limited internet access. Such insights would inform recommendations for improvement. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, the community might benefit from initiatives to attract more physicians. If mental health resources are scarce, the community could explore partnerships with mental health providers in nearby areas or advocate for the establishment of local mental health clinics.

The overall health score analysis is not a static exercise. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment approaches, and policy changes. Regular reassessment is necessary to ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient satisfaction.

The findings from this analysis can be used to advocate for improvements in the healthcare system, attract new healthcare providers, and inform community health initiatives. The data can also be used by individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare, such as choosing a primary care physician or accessing mental health services. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, the community can work towards a healthier future.

The insights from this analysis, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, can be visually represented on a map. This will help you understand the health landscape in Kelly.

**To explore the healthcare landscape in Kelly, NC (ZIP code 28448) visually and gain deeper insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize the data and identify areas with the greatest need.**