28630, Granite Falls, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28630, Granite Falls, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.55 percent of the residents in 28630 has some form of health insurance. 39.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.19 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 28630 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,683 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28630. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,069 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,880 health care providers accessible to residents in 28630, Granite Falls, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Granite Falls, NC (ZIP Code 28630)

Granite Falls, North Carolina, nestled within the Catawba County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Assessing the overall health score for the area necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, painting a picture of the healthcare ecosystem within the 28630 ZIP code.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the fundamental indicators of a community's health is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the availability of medical professionals relative to the population size. In Granite Falls, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. While specific, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential challenge. Rural areas often face shortages of primary care physicians, and Granite Falls is no exception. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and, potentially, delayed or neglected care.

The availability of primary care physicians is inextricably linked to the overall health of the community. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The presence of a robust primary care infrastructure is vital for early diagnosis and intervention, ultimately leading to better health outcomes. Assessing the number of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners within the 28630 ZIP code provides insight into the accessibility of this critical level of care. Limited access to primary care can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals with limited transportation options.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Within Granite Falls, several practices are likely making significant contributions to the health of the community. Identifying these standout practices requires evaluating their service offerings, patient satisfaction scores, and community involvement. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) are often better equipped to serve their patients effectively. The adoption of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers, is another positive indicator. The specific practices that excel in these areas contribute significantly to the overall health score of the community, acting as beacons of quality care within the local landscape.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Bridge to Care:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Granite Falls. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can overcome geographical barriers, reducing the need for travel and minimizing wait times. The adoption rate of telemedicine within the 28630 ZIP code is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services, are likely to be serving a wider patient base and improving the accessibility of care. This is particularly important for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient access to specialists.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources within Granite Falls are critical components of the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of mental health services directly impacts the health of the community. The presence of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and educational programs also contributes to a healthier community. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help, so the availability of accessible and confidential services is paramount.

**Specific Considerations for Granite Falls:**

Granite Falls' demographic makeup, including age distribution, socioeconomic factors, and prevalence of chronic diseases, influences the healthcare needs of the community. The presence of specific health challenges, such as diabetes, heart disease, or substance abuse, requires targeted interventions and resources. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, or addiction treatment, is crucial in addressing these specific health needs. Furthermore, community initiatives focused on health promotion and disease prevention play a vital role in improving the overall health score.

**Concluding Remarks:**

Assessing the overall health score for Granite Falls, NC (28630) is a complex undertaking, requiring a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. While specific data points may fluctuate, the general trend suggests a need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care, particularly in primary care and mental health services. The practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and actively engage with the community are likely to be making a positive impact on the health of the residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Granite Falls and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for analyzing geographical data and visualizing healthcare access, allowing you to gain valuable insights into the health of the community.