28589, Williston, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28589, Williston, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 44.74 percent of the residents in 28589 has some form of health insurance. 44.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28589 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28589. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,066 health care providers accessible to residents in 28589, Williston, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28589 & Williston Primary Care

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28589 (likely a rural area) and specifically examines primary care availability in Williston, likely a town or community within that ZIP code or a nearby area. We will evaluate key factors influencing health outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technology adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" perspective.

**Physician Access and Patient Ratios:**

A crucial element of any health assessment is the availability of physicians. In ZIP code 28589, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio for 28589 is essential. National averages can be used as benchmarks, but the specific local context is paramount. Is there a significant shortage of primary care physicians, specialists, or both? Are there any federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) within the ZIP code, which would further highlight access challenges?

The situation in Williston, specifically regarding primary care availability, needs separate scrutiny. Is Williston the primary service area for 28589? If so, the physician-to-patient ratio specifically for primary care in Williston is of utmost importance. This ratio directly impacts residents' ability to receive routine checkups, manage chronic conditions, and access early interventions. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing in Williston, divided by the population served, will provide a concrete metric for assessing access.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care delivered is crucial. Identifying standout practices within 28589 and Williston requires evaluating several factors. This includes researching patient satisfaction scores, which can be obtained through online reviews, patient surveys, and hospital ratings. Are there any practices that consistently receive high marks for patient experience, communication, and the overall quality of care?

Accreditation status is another important indicator. Does the local hospital or any major clinics hold accreditations from organizations like the Joint Commission or other reputable bodies? These accreditations demonstrate a commitment to meeting rigorous standards of quality and safety. Furthermore, examining the types of services offered by each practice is vital. Do they offer a comprehensive range of primary care services, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and mental health services? The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, endocrinology, or physical therapy, within a reasonable distance, also contributes to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine and other technological advancements can significantly impact healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in 28589 and Williston is vital.

Are local practices offering telehealth appointments for primary care, mental health services, or specialist consultations? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient care and facilitate communication between providers? The integration of technology can improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience. Practices that embrace technology are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and access to mental health resources is particularly important in rural areas, where social isolation and other factors can contribute to mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in 28589 and Williston is crucial.

Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, or counselors practicing in the area? Are these professionals accepting new patients? Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? The availability of mental health services, including access to medication management, therapy, and crisis intervention, significantly impacts the overall health score. Addressing mental health needs is essential for promoting overall well-being and preventing adverse health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, an "Overall Health Score" can be assigned to ZIP code 28589 and the primary care landscape in Williston. This score would ideally be a composite measure, incorporating weighted scores for each of the factors discussed. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context.

A low score would indicate significant challenges in healthcare access and quality, while a high score would suggest a more robust and accessible healthcare system. The score should also be accompanied by a detailed narrative, explaining the specific strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This narrative should highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician recruitment, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28589 and Williston, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, population density, and other relevant data points, explore the power of geospatial analysis. Consider leveraging the capabilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas for improvement.