28501, Kinston, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28501 has some form of health insurance. 59.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.47 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 28501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28501 and Primary Care Availability in Kinston

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 28501, encompassing the city of Kinston, North Carolina. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. This holistic approach aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Kinston, offering insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The cornerstone of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Kinston (ZIP code 28501), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Precise data on the current ratio requires real-time access to medical databases, but publicly available information, such as county health rankings and state medical board data, can offer a general estimate. This analysis would ideally incorporate the latest figures to provide the most accurate assessment. A concerning ratio would necessitate strategic initiatives to attract and retain primary care physicians, such as offering incentives, supporting loan repayment programs, and fostering a favorable practice environment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several metrics. Patient satisfaction scores, often collected through surveys and online reviews, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Accreditation status, such as those from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) or the Joint Commission, indicates adherence to high standards of care and safety. Furthermore, the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can streamline operations and improve communication. Practices that demonstrate excellence in these areas contribute significantly to the overall health score of the region.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Kinston. Its adoption rate within ZIP code 28501 is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care by overcoming geographical barriers, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of services offered (e.g., primary care, mental health, specialist consultations), and the ease of use for patients are all vital. A high adoption rate, coupled with user-friendly platforms and adequate technical support, will positively influence the health score. Conversely, limited telemedicine options will be a significant detriment.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services within Kinston are essential considerations. This includes the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available, as well as the presence of mental health clinics and support groups. Evaluating the affordability of mental health services, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of crisis intervention services are also critical. A robust mental health infrastructure, with readily accessible and affordable services, will substantially enhance the overall health score. Conversely, a shortage of mental health providers and limited access to care will significantly lower the score.

Specific practices within ZIP code 28501 deserve individual scrutiny. For example, a practice that has consistently high patient satisfaction scores, a strong commitment to preventative care, and a robust telemedicine program would be considered a standout. Conversely, a practice with long wait times, limited appointment availability, and a lack of technological integration would negatively impact the overall score. The analysis would identify and evaluate these practices, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The availability of specialists is another important factor. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ease of access to specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and neurologists, impacts the overall health of the community. Assessing the number of specialists, their proximity to the residents of 28501, and the ease of referral from primary care physicians are all important considerations. A well-integrated system, where primary care physicians can easily refer patients to specialists, will positively influence the health score.

The socio-economic factors of the community also play a role. The health score is influenced by factors like the poverty rate, education levels, and access to healthy food options. Communities with higher poverty rates often experience poorer health outcomes due to limited access to healthcare, unhealthy living conditions, and other social determinants of health. A comprehensive analysis considers these factors to provide a more accurate assessment of the overall health landscape.

The impact of local hospitals, like UNC Health Lenoir, on the overall health score is significant. Evaluating the quality of care provided by the hospital, the availability of emergency services, and the hospital's commitment to community outreach programs are all important. A well-equipped and well-regarded hospital will positively influence the health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP code 28501 and primary care availability in Kinston is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with good access to care, high-quality providers, and a strong commitment to the health and well-being of the community. A low score indicates areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, improving access to mental health services, and promoting the adoption of telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Kinston.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kinston, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis and a better understanding of healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 28501.