28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.54 percent of the residents in 28627 has some form of health insurance. 50.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.88 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 28627 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28627. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 316 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 879 health care providers accessible to residents in 28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28627 and Primary Care Availability in Glade Valley

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28627, encompassing the Glade Valley community, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key indicators: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental barometer of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and potentially improved patient outcomes. Within 28627, the precise physician-to-patient ratio fluctuates. However, it’s generally understood that this rural area faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This often results in a lower ratio compared to more urbanized regions. This scarcity can be particularly acute for primary care physicians, creating a bottleneck for patients seeking routine checkups, referrals, and ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Evaluating the presence of standout medical practices is crucial. While the overall physician-to-patient ratio provides a general picture, the quality and reputation of individual practices significantly impact patient experience and outcomes. In Glade Valley, identifying practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize advanced technologies, and offer a broad range of services is key. This includes assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records, and the availability of specialized services. For instance, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and are recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can also enhance accessibility, especially for residents with limited weekday availability.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, offers significant advantages, particularly in rural areas. It can overcome geographical barriers, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The availability of telemedicine options within 28627 can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of use for patients, is essential. Practices that actively promote and integrate telemedicine into their care models contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health and well-being. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing a wide range of mental health conditions. In rural areas like Glade Valley, access to these resources can be particularly challenging. Assessing the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of support groups is essential. The presence of mental health resources that are integrated with primary care practices, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care, is highly beneficial. Furthermore, the availability of crisis intervention services and support for substance use disorders is also a critical consideration.

The overall health score for 28627 is therefore a composite measure. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. While the challenges of rural healthcare, such as a lower physician-to-patient ratio, may present obstacles, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and a robust network of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges and improve the overall health score. The community's health is also influenced by socioeconomic factors, access to healthy food options, and the availability of recreational facilities, all of which indirectly impact the health score.

The assessment of the overall health score is an ongoing process. Regular monitoring of these key indicators is essential to identify trends, assess the impact of new initiatives, and ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met. This data can be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources effectively, and promote improvements in the healthcare landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Glade Valley and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for visualizing physician locations, identifying areas with limited access to care, and gaining a comprehensive perspective on the health resources available in the community.