28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.04 percent of the residents in 28644 has some form of health insurance. 42.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.22 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 28644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28644. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 729 health care providers accessible to residents in 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Laurel Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28644)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the medical landscape within ZIP code 28644, Laurel Springs, North Carolina. It examines the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem in this rural community. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare access and quality for residents.

Laurel Springs, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. Its rural setting often translates to limited resources compared to urban areas. The analysis will consider these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the health environment.

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

Assessing primary care physician (PCP) availability is crucial. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can indicate potential difficulties in accessing timely medical care. Data sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available databases, will be utilized to determine the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. The population of 28644 will be cross-referenced with the number of PCPs to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, meaning more patients per physician, may suggest longer wait times for appointments and potential difficulty in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship.

The geographic distribution of these physicians will also be analyzed. Are they clustered in one area, or are they spread throughout the community? This spatial analysis helps determine accessibility for residents, particularly those in more remote locations within the ZIP code. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics, which often serve underserved populations, will be noted.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Quality:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. This includes patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the utilization of technology. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and testimonials, will be highlighted. The presence of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs, preventative care initiatives, and geriatric care, will be considered.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is also a critical indicator of healthcare quality. Practices that utilize these technologies often provide better care coordination and improved communication between patients and providers. Accreditation status from organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) can also indicate a commitment to quality and safety.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas like Laurel Springs. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and the use of telehealth for mental health services.

The advantages of telemedicine are numerous, including reducing travel time, improving access to specialists, and providing convenient care options for patients with mobility limitations. However, the analysis will also consider the challenges of telemedicine adoption, such as the need for reliable internet access, digital literacy among patients, and the availability of appropriate technology.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources in 28644 will be thoroughly evaluated. This includes identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services will be assessed.

The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals work alongside primary care physicians, can improve access to mental health care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. The availability of substance abuse treatment programs will also be examined.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an 'Overall Health Score' will be assigned to the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28644. This score will reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the health environment for residents.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the key findings, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Laurel Springs. Recommendations for improvement may be included, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or improving access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide valuable insights that can inform healthcare planning and improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Laurel Springs, including the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource allocation.