28640, Jefferson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.50 percent of the residents in 28640 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.87 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 28640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 776 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28640. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Jefferson, North Carolina, necessitates a comprehensive examination of the medical resources available within ZIP code 28640. This analysis, framed as an "Overall Health Score," delves into the critical aspects of healthcare access, quality, and innovation, providing a nuanced understanding of the community's well-being. We will consider factors such as physician availability, the integration of technology, and the presence of mental health services.

The foundation of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Jefferson reveals a crucial aspect of healthcare accessibility. Data from relevant databases, such as the North Carolina Medical Board, and population figures from the US Census Bureau, are essential to accurately calculate this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. This impacts preventative care, early diagnosis, and overall health outcomes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are practices clustered in one area, or are they geographically dispersed, ensuring equitable access for all residents? The presence of specialists, though not the primary focus of this analysis, also plays a role. The availability of specialists, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code, can influence the overall health score by providing access to more comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices within Jefferson requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves considering factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, and the adoption of best practices. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, or participate in population health initiatives would likely receive higher marks. The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers are also key indicators of a modern and efficient practice.

The integration of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Jefferson. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. Examining the adoption rate of telemedicine by local practices is crucial. Do physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or other telehealth services? The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a related factor. Without adequate connectivity, the benefits of telemedicine are limited.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is vital for addressing a range of conditions. Evaluating the availability of these services within the ZIP code is necessary. Are there local mental health clinics, counseling centers, or individual practitioners? The integration of mental healthcare with primary care is another positive indicator, as it can facilitate early identification and treatment of mental health concerns.

The presence of support groups, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives also contributes to a strong mental health infrastructure. Examining the availability of these resources can reveal the community's commitment to promoting mental well-being. The accessibility of these services, including affordability and insurance coverage, is also a crucial factor in the overall health score.

Beyond primary care and mental health, the availability of other healthcare services, such as dental care, vision care, and physical therapy, also contributes to the overall health of the community. While not the primary focus, the presence of these services can influence the overall health score. The integration of these services with primary care can create a more coordinated and patient-centered approach to healthcare.

The overall health score for Jefferson, NC (ZIP code 28640) is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment that evolves over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, can be used to create a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

The final score would reflect a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to primary care might be weighted more heavily than the availability of specialized services. The score would then be interpreted to provide a clear understanding of the community's strengths and weaknesses in terms of healthcare access and quality.

This analysis, however, is just a snapshot. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jefferson, visual representations of the data can be incredibly helpful. Maps that display the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of health resources, and population demographics can reveal patterns and insights that are not apparent in numerical data alone.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Jefferson, NC (ZIP code 28640) and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and ultimately, contribute to a healthier community.