28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.32 percent of the residents in 28528 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.96 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 28528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,144 health care providers accessible to residents in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28528 & Primary Care Availability in Gloucester

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28528, which encompasses a significant portion of Gloucester, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” assessment, painting a picture of the healthcare environment for residents.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available resources and local health department reports offer valuable insights. Gloucester, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges in this regard. The recruitment and retention of primary care physicians is an ongoing concern, influenced by factors such as geographic isolation, lifestyle preferences, and financial considerations. Monitoring this ratio and comparing it to state and national averages provides a benchmark for assessing the adequacy of primary care services.

Standout practices within 28528 contribute significantly to the overall health score. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize innovative technologies, and actively engage in community outreach. Identifying these practices involves examining patient reviews, assessing accreditations, and evaluating the range of services offered. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, prioritizing communication, preventative care, and chronic disease management, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in population health initiatives, such as screening programs and health education campaigns, positively impact the community’s overall well-being.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare, particularly in areas with limited geographical access. The ability to consult with physicians remotely, receive virtual check-ups, and access specialist consultations can dramatically improve access to care for residents of 28528. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring technologies, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and are better positioned to serve a geographically dispersed population.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a key indicator of community health. Assessing the mental health landscape involves examining the number of mental health providers, the availability of support groups and counseling services, and the presence of crisis intervention resources. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also crucial for integrated care. Communities with robust mental health support systems tend to have better health outcomes overall.

The overall health score for 28528 and primary care availability in Gloucester is a complex calculation. It’s not a single number but a composite assessment. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are weighted factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score. The presence of a well-regarded primary care practice that embraces technology and telehealth would positively influence the score. A robust mental health infrastructure would further elevate the score.

The challenges faced by Gloucester, like many rural communities, require ongoing attention. Addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services are key priorities. Community partnerships, government initiatives, and private sector investments are all necessary to improve the overall health score. Regular monitoring of key metrics, such as the physician-to-patient ratio and the utilization of telemedicine, is crucial for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.

The assessment of healthcare availability must also consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation all influence health outcomes. Initiatives that address these social determinants, in conjunction with improvements in healthcare access, are essential for achieving a truly comprehensive and equitable health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 28528 and primary care availability in Gloucester is likely moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural healthcare access. Addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services are critical for improving the score. A deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including the identification of standout practices and the assessment of mental health resources, is essential for informed decision-making and effective resource allocation. Continued monitoring and evaluation are crucial for tracking progress and ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28528 and Gloucester, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and making data-driven decisions to improve community health.