28646, Linville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28646, Linville, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.64 percent of the residents in 28646 has some form of health insurance. 36.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.87 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 28646 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28646. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,188 health care providers accessible to residents in 28646, Linville, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28646 & Primary Care Availability in Linville

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 28646, encompassing the Linville area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will evaluate the current state, identify potential areas for improvement, and offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic region.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, a decline in overall health outcomes. In ZIP Code 28646, the specific ratio requires diligent investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) would provide the most accurate picture. Analyzing this data is crucial to determine if the area is considered a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care. If the ratio is unfavorable, it necessitates exploring strategies to attract and retain qualified medical professionals.

Identifying standout practices within the region is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can significantly influence the quality of care. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the breadth of services offered. A practice that consistently earns high marks from patients, embraces electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information exchange, and offers a wide range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals, would be considered a strong asset to the community. Investigating the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of extended hours, and the practice's commitment to community outreach are also important.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services via telecommunications technologies, has gained significant prominence, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within ZIP Code 28646 is a crucial factor in evaluating overall health accessibility. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive virtual check-ups, and access specialist consultations without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the number of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services is paramount. Widespread telemedicine adoption can significantly enhance the overall health score.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical aspect of a comprehensive healthcare system. Mental health issues are prevalent and can significantly impact overall well-being. Evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area is necessary. Assessing the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, the presence of community mental health centers, and the accessibility of crisis intervention services are also important. The integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system, including collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals, is crucial for providing holistic care.

A comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28646 should also consider other factors. The presence of urgent care facilities, the availability of specialty care (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), and the quality of local hospitals are all relevant. Evaluating the affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage rates and the availability of financial assistance programs, is also essential. Furthermore, assessing the community's health literacy and the availability of health education programs can contribute to a more informed and proactive approach to health.

The overall health score for this region is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the interconnectedness of these various factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a robust network of primary care providers, widespread telemedicine availability, and readily accessible mental health services would contribute to a higher score. The goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that is accessible, affordable, and provides high-quality care to all residents.

To improve the overall health score, targeted interventions are necessary. These may include initiatives to attract and retain physicians, promote telemedicine adoption, expand mental health services, and improve health literacy. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for developing and implementing these interventions. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the healthcare landscape are also essential to track progress and identify areas for further improvement.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28646 is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identify opportunities for improvement. The ultimate goal is to create a healthier community where all residents have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28646 and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize healthcare data, allowing you to easily identify the locations of healthcare providers, assess physician-to-patient ratios, and explore other relevant information. This visual approach can provide valuable insights and facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.