28637, Hildebran, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28637, Hildebran, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.97 percent of the residents in 28637 has some form of health insurance. 42.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.15 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 28637 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28637. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,146 health care providers accessible to residents in 28637, Hildebran, North Carolina.

Overall Health Score Analysis: Hildebran, NC (ZIP Code 28637)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Hildebran, North Carolina, (ZIP Code 28637) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, the quality of primary care services, access to mental health resources, and the integration of telemedicine. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview, leading to a nuanced understanding of the community's health profile.

Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator

One of the most fundamental indicators of a community's health is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and can fluctuate, data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau provide estimates. In Hildebran, the ratio is likely influenced by its proximity to larger towns and cities like Hickory and Morganton. These larger urban centers often have a greater concentration of medical professionals. Consequently, residents of Hildebran may benefit from access to a broader range of specialists and services, even if the local physician-to-patient ratio appears less favorable. This dynamic underscores the importance of considering the broader regional healthcare ecosystem.

Primary Care Availability: A Cornerstone of Health

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system. They provide essential preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and coordinate referrals to specialists. The availability and accessibility of PCPs in Hildebran are crucial. Factors to consider include the number of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and pediatricians serving the area. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics also contributes to the overall primary care availability. Information on practice locations, hours of operation, and whether they are accepting new patients provides a clearer picture. Furthermore, the quality of primary care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. The adoption of patient-centered medical home models, which emphasize care coordination and patient engagement, can significantly improve the quality of care.

Standout Practices: Identifying Centers of Excellence

Identifying standout medical practices within ZIP Code 28637 and its surrounding areas requires research. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the practice's commitment to quality improvement. Practices that have received recognition from healthcare organizations or have demonstrated excellence in specific areas of care, such as chronic disease management or geriatric care, are particularly noteworthy. Examining the practice's technology adoption, particularly the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, is also relevant. EHRs streamline record-keeping and facilitate communication between providers, while patient portals empower patients to manage their health information and communicate with their care teams.

Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access to Care

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Hildebran is a critical factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making healthcare more convenient. The availability of telehealth services for primary care, mental health, and specialty consultations is an important indicator. Assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring) and the ease of use for patients is also essential. The integration of telemedicine into existing healthcare workflows can significantly improve access to care and patient outcomes.

Mental Health Resources: Addressing a Critical Need

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources in Hildebran is a critical component of the health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals. Access to mental health services should be assessed, including the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric medication management. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site behavioral health counseling, can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with mental health care.

Overall Assessment and Conclusion

Evaluating the health landscape in Hildebran requires a holistic approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health score. While the specific metrics can fluctuate, a comprehensive assessment provides a valuable snapshot of the community's health profile. The health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can be improved through investments in healthcare infrastructure, the promotion of preventative care, and the integration of innovative technologies.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of the healthcare landscape in Hildebran and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. They offer a powerful tool for understanding and visualizing the complex factors that influence community health.