28574, Richlands, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.55 percent of the residents in 28574 has some form of health insurance. 31.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.29 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 28574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,993 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28574. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,609 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,367 health care providers accessible to residents in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Richlands, NC (ZIP Code 28574)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Richlands, North Carolina (ZIP code 28574) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, designed to provide an 'Overall Health Score,' will delve into key aspects of healthcare access and quality, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This granular evaluation aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the health environment within this specific community.

The foundation of any healthy community rests upon the availability of accessible primary care. In Richlands, the concentration of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio directly impacts the ability of residents to secure timely appointments and receive consistent care. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, typically translates to better access and potentially improved health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and a greater strain on existing medical resources. Analyzing the actual numerical ratio for 28574 is crucial. This requires data collection from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant databases to determine the precise number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the corresponding population size.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing practices are vital. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction ratings, the range of services offered, the adoption of modern technologies, and affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Practices with a strong track record of patient care, positive reviews, and a commitment to innovation often contribute significantly to a community's overall health score. Investigating online review platforms, surveying local residents, and examining the credentials and specializations of physicians within the area are all essential steps in identifying these exemplary practices.

The integration of telemedicine has dramatically reshaped healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Richlands is an important indicator of health accessibility. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services offered through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the availability of necessary technological infrastructure (e.g., reliable internet access) within the community.

Mental health is an increasingly critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within Richlands significantly impacts the community’s health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health clinics. Furthermore, the accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and affordability, is crucial. Researching local mental health providers, exploring community support groups, and examining partnerships with local hospitals or healthcare systems are essential for assessing the mental health landscape.

The overall health score is not merely a sum of these individual factors; it is an integrated assessment. A high physician-to-patient ratio alone does not guarantee a healthy community if the quality of care is lacking or if mental health resources are scarce. Similarly, exceptional practices may be hampered by limited access due to geographic constraints or a lack of telemedicine options. The analysis must consider the interplay between these factors to provide a holistic and accurate evaluation.

Data collection is the cornerstone of this analysis. Gathering information from various sources, including local hospitals, clinics, the North Carolina Medical Board, insurance providers, and community health organizations, is essential. This information must be meticulously compiled, analyzed, and interpreted to generate a comprehensive and reliable overall health score. The data should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, ensuring the score remains relevant and useful.

Analyzing the data will reveal patterns and trends. For example, the analysis may reveal a shortage of specialists, a lack of mental health support for specific age groups, or a limited adoption of telemedicine. These insights will inform recommendations for improvement. These recommendations could include encouraging the recruitment of additional primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, advocating for increased mental health services, and supporting initiatives that improve access to care for underserved populations.

The analysis must also consider the unique characteristics of Richlands. Factors such as the community's demographics, socioeconomic status, and cultural diversity can influence health outcomes and the effectiveness of healthcare interventions. Understanding these local nuances is crucial for tailoring recommendations and ensuring that the overall health score accurately reflects the community's needs.

The final overall health score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, utilizing a scoring system that is easily understood. The score should be accompanied by a detailed report that provides a breakdown of the individual factors contributing to the score, along with supporting data and analysis. The report should also include specific recommendations for improvement, based on the findings of the analysis.

To truly visualize and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other crucial data points, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing this complex information, allowing for a deeper understanding of the health landscape in Richlands and beyond.