28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.92 percent of the residents in 28586 has some form of health insurance. 42.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.44 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 28586 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,477 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28586. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Vanceboro, NC (ZIP Code 28586)

Vanceboro, North Carolina, a small community nestled in Craven County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and overall health outcomes. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 28586 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the raw number of doctors. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Vanceboro, the ratio is likely to be less favorable than in more urban areas. A rural community often struggles to attract and retain physicians due to factors like lower salaries, fewer professional opportunities for spouses, and a perceived lack of amenities. This can result in longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized care, and potential challenges in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. While precise data on the current physician-to-patient ratio in 28586 requires access to real-time databases, a reasonable assumption is that the ratio is higher than the national average, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population.

Identifying standout practices within Vanceboro requires an examination of several criteria. Patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of technology, and the practice's commitment to community outreach are all relevant. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and provide a comprehensive suite of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and basic diagnostic capabilities, are likely to be considered superior. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to improving overall population health deserve recognition. Without specific practice names, this analysis relies on general observations.

Telemedicine adoption, particularly in rural areas, can significantly improve access to care. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can reduce travel burdens, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in Vanceboro. The degree of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in 28586 is a critical factor in the 'Overall Health Score'. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to receive higher marks. The success of telemedicine hinges on factors such as reliable internet connectivity, patient comfort with technology, and the availability of appropriate equipment.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural communities. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is often limited. The stigma associated with mental illness can also prevent individuals from seeking help. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Vanceboro requires examining the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of therapists accepting new patients, and the existence of community support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for integrated care. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues, offer referrals to mental health professionals, and promote mental wellness initiatives contribute positively to the 'Overall Health Score'.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Vanceboro, NC (28586) is likely to be influenced by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are key factors. The absence of detailed data on specific practices and their performance limits the precision of this analysis. However, a general assessment suggests that while Vanceboro likely has dedicated healthcare providers, the community faces challenges in ensuring adequate access to primary care and mental health services.

To improve the 'Overall Health Score', several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting and retaining physicians through financial incentives, loan forgiveness programs, and improved quality of life initiatives are crucial. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, improving internet infrastructure, and providing training to patients on how to use telemedicine platforms can enhance access to care. Increasing the availability of mental health professionals through recruitment efforts, telehealth services, and community partnerships is essential. Promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma are also important.

The success of these initiatives depends on collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, community organizations, and residents. A coordinated approach that addresses the unique needs of the Vanceboro community is essential for improving overall health outcomes. The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static measure; it should be continuously evaluated and improved through data-driven decision-making and ongoing community engagement.

To gain a more granular understanding of healthcare access and physician locations in Vanceboro and surrounding areas, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of primary care availability and other health-related factors.