28618, Deep Gap, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28618, Deep Gap, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.74 percent of the residents in 28618 has some form of health insurance. 34.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.28 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 28618 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28618. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 315 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,905 health care providers accessible to residents in 28618, Deep Gap, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Deep Gap, NC (ZIP Code 28618)**

Deep Gap, North Carolina, nestled within the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the health of its residents requires a nuanced understanding of the availability and accessibility of medical services, particularly primary care. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for doctors within ZIP code 28618, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Assessing the healthcare environment in Deep Gap begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric is crucial because it directly impacts access to care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in addressing health concerns. While specific, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and require constant monitoring, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to estimate these ratios. Comparing these figures to state and national averages provides a critical benchmark. If Deep Gap’s ratio falls below the state or national averages, it suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves examining several factors, including the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and offer a comprehensive suite of services (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health, geriatric care) contribute positively to the overall health score. Furthermore, practices that are actively involved in community outreach programs and health education initiatives are particularly valuable. These practices act as cornerstones of the healthcare system, providing a high level of care and serving as models for other providers.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Deep Gap. It can reduce travel time and costs for patients, making it easier to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some types of specialized care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services, contribute positively to the health score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a key consideration, as it directly impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent across all populations, and access to timely and effective mental healthcare is essential for overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Deep Gap involves examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The number of mental health professionals per capita, as well as the availability of support groups and mental health programs, are important considerations. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care offerings, or that have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, contribute significantly to a higher overall health score.

Evaluating the quality of care provided by doctors in Deep Gap requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves reviewing patient feedback, assessing the practice’s adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and examining health outcomes data. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through platforms like the North Carolina Medical Board or independent review sites, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding communication, empathy, and the quality of care provided are contributing to a positive health score. Furthermore, examining data related to chronic disease management, preventative care utilization, and hospital readmission rates can provide a more objective assessment of the quality of care.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 28618 is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that changes over time, reflecting improvements or declines in the healthcare landscape. Factors such as physician recruitment, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the development of new mental health resources can all contribute to a higher score. Conversely, physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of investment in preventative care can negatively impact the score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare system in Deep Gap is meeting the needs of its residents.

Assessing the overall health score also requires considering the broader context of the community. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and the availability of recreational opportunities can all impact health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential to improving the overall well-being of the community. Healthcare providers can play a role in this effort by partnering with community organizations, supporting health education initiatives, and advocating for policies that promote health equity.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 28618 is a complex assessment that considers multiple factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all play a crucial role. By continuously monitoring these factors and working to address any shortcomings, the community can strive to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Deep Gap and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations.