28472, Whiteville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.88 percent of the residents in 28472 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.72 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 28472 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28472. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 770 health care providers accessible to residents in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina.

The overall health score for the region encompassing ZIP Code 28472, specifically focusing on the town of Whiteville, North Carolina, presents a complex picture. Evaluating the health landscape necessitates a multi-faceted approach, examining primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, culminating in a call to action.

Primary care availability in Whiteville is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. Assessing this involves considering the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area, the capacity of their practices to accept new patients, and the geographical distribution of these practices. Whiteville, being a relatively small town, may experience challenges in attracting and retaining a sufficient number of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and limited access to care, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring preventative services.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians relative to the population, suggests a greater burden on existing PCPs. This can translate into reduced time spent with each patient, potentially impacting the quality of care and patient satisfaction. Conversely, a lower ratio, with more physicians available, usually indicates improved access and potentially better health outcomes. This ratio must be carefully considered within the context of Whiteville’s demographics, including the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic factors that influence health needs.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care. This involves evaluating practices based on patient reviews, accreditation status, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative approaches to patient care. Practices that embrace patient-centered care models, utilize electronic health records effectively, and offer extended hours or weekend appointments often contribute positively to the overall health score. These practices can serve as models for other providers, fostering improvements in the delivery of care throughout the region.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. The implementation of telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also enhance the efficiency of care delivery by reducing travel time and enabling more frequent communication between patients and providers. The extent to which Whiteville’s healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine technologies will directly impact the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical indicator of the community’s well-being. Access to mental health services, including crisis intervention, therapy, and medication management, can significantly impact the health outcomes of individuals and the community as a whole. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives further contributes to the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health services in Whiteville.

Specific examples of standout practices in Whiteville would be beneficial to highlight. Are there practices that have earned recognition for their patient care? Are there any practices that have embraced innovative approaches to patient care, such as integrated behavioral health services or chronic disease management programs? Identifying and showcasing these practices can inspire others to improve and enhance the overall quality of care.

The challenges associated with primary care availability in Whiteville must be acknowledged. Are there shortages of PCPs? Are there difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals? Understanding these challenges is critical for developing effective strategies to improve access to care and address the health needs of the community.

The demographics of Whiteville are also relevant. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic factors that influence health needs all play a role in shaping the overall health score. For example, an aging population may require more specialized care and support services, while a high prevalence of chronic diseases may strain the healthcare system.

The availability of specialty care in Whiteville is also worth mentioning. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, can significantly improve the quality of care. The ability of patients to access specialty care locally can reduce the need for travel and improve health outcomes.

The role of community health initiatives in Whiteville is also important. Are there any community-based programs that promote health and wellness? Are there any initiatives that address social determinants of health, such as food insecurity or housing instability? These initiatives can play a vital role in improving the overall health score.

The role of the local hospital in Whiteville is also relevant. The hospital is often the cornerstone of the healthcare system, providing a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. The quality of care provided by the hospital, its accreditation status, and its capacity to meet the needs of the community all contribute to the overall health score.

The overall health score for Whiteville, North Carolina, is a dynamic metric, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall picture. While Whiteville may face certain challenges, such as the size of the community and the availability of resources, the town's healthcare providers are constantly working to improve the quality of care and address the health needs of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Whiteville and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and detailed maps that can help you analyze healthcare access, identify areas with limited resources, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.