28455, Nakina, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.58 percent of the residents in 28455 has some form of health insurance. 40.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.64 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 28455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 745 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28455. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,707 health care providers accessible to residents in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28455 & Nakina Primary Care

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28455 (covering the town of Nakina, North Carolina, and surrounding areas) focusing on primary care availability and related health metrics. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local system.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility**

A crucial factor in assessing healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas, this ratio often presents a significant challenge. While specific, publicly available data for Nakina's exact physician-to-patient ratio is difficult to obtain in real time, data from broader regional surveys provides a useful benchmark. Neighboring counties, which share similar demographic and geographic characteristics, often exhibit ratios that are lower than the state or national averages. This suggests that residents of 28455 may face difficulties securing timely appointments with primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency services, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The geographical distribution of healthcare providers further exacerbates this issue. Even if a sufficient number of physicians are present within the broader region, their location can create significant barriers to access. Long travel distances, particularly for individuals with limited transportation options or mobility issues, can make it challenging to attend routine checkups or specialist appointments. Public transportation options are often limited in rural settings, adding another layer of complexity to accessing care.

**Standout Practices and Service Quality**

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a nuanced approach. While a simple ranking based on the number of physicians or the presence of certain services can be misleading, a more holistic assessment is needed. This includes analyzing patient reviews, evaluating the range of services offered, and assessing the adoption of technology to improve patient care.

Practices that excel often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, fostering strong doctor-patient relationships, and providing comprehensive services. This includes offering extended hours, same-day appointments when possible, and a focus on preventative care. Practices that embrace technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can enhance communication, streamline administrative processes, and improve the overall patient experience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers in 28455 can significantly impact the overall health score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making healthcare more accessible for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

The availability of telemedicine services can also expand the range of specialists available to patients. Through virtual consultations, patients can connect with specialists who may not be readily available in their local area. This can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions and providing access to specialized care. The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet connectivity, patient and provider familiarity with technology, and the availability of reimbursement for virtual visits.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in assessing the health score of a community. Access to mental health services in rural areas often lags behind that of urban areas. This can be due to a shortage of mental health professionals, limited access to specialized programs, and the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.

The presence of primary care providers who are trained in mental health screening and basic counseling can play a crucial role in addressing this gap. These providers can identify patients who may be struggling with mental health issues and provide initial support or refer them to specialized services. The availability of community-based mental health programs, such as support groups and educational workshops, can also contribute to improved mental health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score Assessment and Conclusion**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for ZIP Code 28455, particularly regarding primary care availability in Nakina, likely faces challenges. The physician-to-patient ratio may be lower than the state or national average, potentially leading to difficulties in accessing timely appointments. The geographical distribution of providers and limited transportation options can further complicate access to care.

While the presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine can mitigate some of these challenges, the overall health score is also influenced by the availability of mental health resources. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, improve access to transportation, expand telemedicine services, and increase the availability of mental health support.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in detail, including provider locations, service offerings, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you understand the healthcare environment in 28455 and other areas, enabling data-driven decisions to improve healthcare access and quality.