28635, Hays, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28635, Hays, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.00 percent of the residents in 28635 has some form of health insurance. 49.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.80 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 28635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 803 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 753 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,237 health care providers accessible to residents in 28635, Hays, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28635 and Primary Care Availability in Hays, North Carolina**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28635, encompassing the community of Hays, North Carolina, necessitates a multi-faceted analysis. This evaluation goes beyond simply counting the number of physicians. It delves into the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. These factors, interwoven, contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the accessibility and quality of healthcare within this specific geographical area.

The physician-to-patient ratio provides a fundamental starting point. In Hays, the density of physicians relative to the population serves as a crucial indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving prompt medical attention. This can lead to longer wait times, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, providing residents with more choices and potentially shorter waiting periods. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data or utilizing specialized healthcare databases. This data should be carefully analyzed to account for the varying specialties of physicians.

Beyond the raw numbers, the presence of standout medical practices significantly influences the overall health score. These practices are often characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technologies, and a focus on preventative medicine. They may offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and specialized services that cater to the unique needs of the Hays community. Evaluating these practices involves researching patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and examining the qualifications and experience of the medical staff. Practices that actively engage with the community through outreach programs and health education initiatives further enhance their positive impact.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical element. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations and online portals, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Hays. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing residents to consult with specialists who may not be readily available locally. It can also improve access to chronic disease management and mental health services. The extent to which physicians in ZIP code 28635 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments, online prescription refills, and remote monitoring capabilities, directly impacts the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health challenges. The assessment should consider the number of mental health providers serving the Hays community, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. This includes evaluating insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices further enhances accessibility and promotes holistic patient care.

The analysis also considers the specific healthcare needs of the Hays population. This involves understanding the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and the availability of specialized care for these conditions. It also considers the demographics of the community, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, as these can influence healthcare needs and access. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers is also assessed, as these organizations play a crucial role in providing healthcare services to underserved populations.

The quality of care is another essential factor. This involves evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the accreditation status of the medical facilities, and the use of evidence-based practices. The assessment also considers patient outcomes, such as hospital readmission rates and mortality rates, although this data can be difficult to obtain and interpret accurately. Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Furthermore, the presence of ancillary healthcare services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and diagnostic imaging, is considered. These services are essential for comprehensive healthcare, and their availability within the community can significantly impact the overall health score. The assessment should also consider the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related businesses, as these contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

The integration of technology plays a significant role. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and reduce medical errors. The adoption of patient portals allows patients to access their medical information and communicate with their healthcare providers. The use of telehealth platforms can expand access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. The assessment should consider the extent to which physicians in ZIP code 28635 have embraced these technologies.

Finally, the overall health score is not static; it is subject to change over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This includes gathering data on key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, mental health service utilization, and patient satisfaction. It also includes soliciting feedback from the community and healthcare providers.

**Conclusion**

A comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28635 requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis offers a glimpse into the factors influencing the health of the Hays community. To visualize and further explore the healthcare data for Hays, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hays and beyond.