28452, Longwood, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.84 percent of the residents in 28452 has some form of health insurance. 50.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.81 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 28452 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28452. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,245 health care providers accessible to residents in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 28452 and Primary Care in Longwood

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for two distinct geographical areas: the availability and quality of primary care physicians in ZIP Code 28452 (likely a rural or suburban area) and the broader landscape of primary care access in Longwood, Florida. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This is a comparative assessment, aiming to highlight strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement within each region.

**28452: A Focused Examination**

Assessing the health of a community begins with understanding its access to primary care. In ZIP Code 28452, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Data from reliable sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) must be consulted to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the zip code and the corresponding population. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, often signifies challenges in accessing timely medical attention. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of medical practices present in 28452 are important. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer the advantage of shared resources, including extended hours, a wider range of specialties, and potentially, better integration of care. Conversely, solo practices might provide a more personalized patient experience, fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also a significant factor. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and provide comprehensive care regardless of a patient's ability to pay.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the health score. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to modern healthcare delivery and a willingness to adapt to evolving patient needs.

Mental health resources are an indispensable element of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and mental health support groups in 28452 is crucial. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices is particularly beneficial, allowing for seamless coordination of physical and mental healthcare. Without adequate mental health support, individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing chronic diseases, substance abuse, and other adverse health outcomes.

**Longwood: A Broader Perspective**

Evaluating primary care in Longwood, Florida, requires a broader lens. The physician-to-patient ratio in Longwood as a whole needs to be analyzed, but also the distribution of physicians within the city. Are there areas with physician shortages, while others are adequately served? This involves mapping the locations of primary care practices and analyzing population density to identify potential disparities in access.

The characteristics of the medical practices in Longwood are also critical. Are there well-established, reputable practices with a long history of serving the community? Do these practices offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments? The presence of teaching hospitals or clinics affiliated with major medical centers can also indicate a higher level of care and access to advanced medical technologies.

Telemedicine adoption in Longwood should be evaluated across the city. Are telemedicine services readily available to patients? Are they offered by a wide range of providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals? The ease of access to telemedicine platforms, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall healthcare system are all key factors.

The availability of mental health resources in Longwood is paramount. This includes the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is especially important, as it can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and make it easier for patients to access the care they need. The presence of resources for specific populations, such as children, adolescents, and veterans, is also a key consideration.

**Comparative Analysis and Scoring**

Comparing 28452 and Longwood requires a framework for scoring. Each area should be assessed across the key categories: physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A scoring system could be developed, assigning points based on the availability, accessibility, and quality of each category. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio would receive a higher score than a low ratio. Practices with advanced telemedicine capabilities would score higher than those without. The presence of integrated mental health services would also be a positive factor.

The final overall health score would be a composite of these individual category scores. This would provide a comparative assessment of the two areas, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, if 28452 has a lower physician-to-patient ratio but a strong telemedicine presence, its score would reflect those contrasting factors. Longwood, with a potentially better physician-to-patient ratio but weaker mental health resources, would similarly reflect its specific health landscape.

**Conclusion**

The health of a community is a multifaceted issue, and this analysis provides a starting point for understanding the primary care landscape in 28452 and Longwood. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each area. This analysis is designed to provide a framework for understanding the health of these communities.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, the locations of medical practices, and the availability of services, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and facilitating informed decision-making.