28551, La Grange, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28551, La Grange, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.54 percent of the residents in 28551 has some form of health insurance. 39.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.44 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 28551 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,357 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28551. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,150 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 820 health care providers accessible to residents in 28551, La Grange, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28551 & Primary Care in La Grange

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 28551, focusing on primary care availability in the town of La Grange, North Carolina. We will evaluate various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a clear understanding of the community’s healthcare strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provide estimates. Analyzing these data, coupled with information from local healthcare providers, allows us to determine if the area faces a shortage of primary care physicians. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and impacting overall health outcomes. The analysis must consider the number of active, practicing primary care physicians, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians, within the specified ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This broader perspective is essential, as residents often seek care outside their immediate geographical boundaries.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes patient satisfaction ratings, which are often available through online platforms and patient surveys. The quality of the medical staff, including their experience, training, and specialization, is also critical. The availability of comprehensive services within a practice, such as on-site laboratory testing, radiology, and chronic disease management programs, can significantly improve patient convenience and care coordination. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing communication, shared decision-making, and proactive health management, are generally considered to be of higher quality.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to greatly impact healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like La Grange. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services available through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, mental health counseling), and the technology infrastructure supporting these services. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a significant factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine for all residents.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is crucial. Evaluating the mental health landscape involves identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Access to these professionals, including their availability for appointments and acceptance of various insurance plans, is a key consideration. Furthermore, assessing the presence of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers can provide a more comprehensive picture of the community’s mental health support system. The availability of resources for substance abuse treatment is also a critical factor.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, it is important to consider the demographic characteristics of the population within ZIP Code 28551. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can all influence healthcare needs and resource allocation. Understanding these demographic factors allows for a more nuanced assessment of the community’s healthcare challenges and opportunities.

The geographical distribution of healthcare providers is also a relevant factor. Are primary care practices clustered in one area, or are they distributed more evenly throughout the ZIP code? This distribution can impact access to care for residents living in different parts of the community. Public transportation options and the availability of transportation assistance programs for those with limited mobility also play a role in healthcare access.

The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is another important consideration. These centers often provide affordable and accessible healthcare services to underserved populations, including primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services. Evaluating the services offered by these centers, their hours of operation, and their ability to meet the needs of the community is crucial.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 28551 and primary care availability in La Grange is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician staffing, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the community. This ongoing assessment is essential for identifying areas of strength and weakness and for informing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality.

Furthermore, understanding the healthcare landscape requires consideration of the broader regional context. Are there nearby hospitals or specialty care centers that residents can access? The availability of these resources can supplement the primary care services within the ZIP code. Collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers within the region are also important factors.

The analysis also needs to consider the impact of health insurance coverage. The percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available, and the affordability of healthcare services all influence access to care. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring that all residents can receive the healthcare they need.

Finally, the analysis should consider the community's engagement in health promotion and disease prevention. Are there public health programs or initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes? The presence of these programs can indicate a commitment to proactive healthcare and community well-being.

This comprehensive analysis provides a framework for understanding the overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 28551 and primary care availability in La Grange. To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of location-based insights with CartoChrome maps.