28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 28480 has some form of health insurance. 22.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.14 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 28480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28480. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wrightsville Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28480)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28480) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. We'll aim to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and stakeholders.

The cornerstone of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Wrightsville Beach, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While specific, publicly available data for this ZIP code alone can be challenging to pinpoint precisely, we can leverage broader county-level (New Hanover County) statistics and extrapolate. Ideally, a healthy ratio would reflect a sufficient number of physicians to serve the population adequately. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and exacerbating existing health concerns. Conversely, a lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests greater access and improved health outcomes. Researching the current county-wide ratio and comparing it to national benchmarks provides a crucial starting point.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Wrightsville Beach is paramount. Several factors contribute to this assessment. Reputation, as reflected in patient reviews and testimonials, is a significant consideration. Practices with consistently positive feedback regarding patient communication, thoroughness of examinations, and overall satisfaction often indicate higher quality care. The range of services offered is also important. Do practices provide comprehensive care, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialists? The availability of in-house diagnostic capabilities, such as basic lab work, can streamline the patient experience and facilitate timely diagnosis.

Furthermore, the adoption of telemedicine is a key indicator of a forward-thinking healthcare environment. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly enhance access to care, especially for residents with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited physical access to medical facilities. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved healthcare delivery. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in Wrightsville Beach is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow.

Mental health resources are an increasingly vital component of overall health. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a positive trend. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care settings can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions, reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support, within the primary care landscape of Wrightsville Beach is essential. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site mental health providers, partnerships with mental health organizations, and the referral pathways for patients needing specialized care.

Identifying standout practices within Wrightsville Beach requires a deeper dive. This involves analyzing practice profiles, examining patient reviews, and evaluating the range of services offered. Practices that consistently receive high ratings, offer comprehensive care, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are prime examples of healthcare excellence. Investigating the specific specialties and expertise of physicians within these practices is also valuable. Do they have experience in geriatric care, women's health, or other specialized areas?

The overall health score for Wrightsville Beach, NC (28480) is a composite of these factors. We must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices (as reflected in patient reviews and service offerings), the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score should reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services within the community. A higher score indicates a healthier community with greater access to quality care, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, especially those specializing in geriatrics or chronic disease management, can improve the physician-to-patient ratio. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine technologies can enhance access to care, particularly for residents with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Strengthening partnerships between primary care practices and mental health organizations can improve the integration of mental health services. Public health initiatives focused on preventative care, health education, and chronic disease management can also contribute to a healthier community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Wrightsville Beach, NC (28480) is a dynamic measure reflecting the community's health infrastructure. A comprehensive analysis, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, provides a valuable assessment. This analysis is not a static evaluation but a snapshot in time. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that residents of Wrightsville Beach have access to the quality healthcare they deserve.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wrightsville Beach, including the locations of medical practices, physician density, and other relevant data points, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the community's health resources.