28670, Ronda, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.83 percent of the residents in 28670 has some form of health insurance. 36.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.95 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 28670 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 698 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28670. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 492 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,072 health care providers accessible to residents in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ronda, NC (ZIP Code 28670)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the community of Ronda, North Carolina, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 28670. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to paint a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape in Ronda, offering insights for residents and potential healthcare providers.

The foundation of any health score analysis lies in understanding the basic demographics and healthcare needs of the population. Ronda, a rural community in Wilkes County, likely faces challenges common to such areas, including an aging population, potentially limited access to transportation, and a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. These factors underscore the importance of accessible and well-resourced primary care.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure represents the number of physicians available to serve a specific population. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. While precise data for Ronda specifically can fluctuate, the overall physician density in Wilkes County is likely lower than the national average. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing providers, and potential challenges in attracting new physicians to the area. This directly impacts the overall health score.

The presence of standout primary care practices significantly influences the overall health score. These practices are identified by their commitment to patient care, their innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, and their positive patient outcomes. A practice with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, a comprehensive range of services, and a focus on preventative care can significantly improve the health score of the community. Conversely, the absence of such practices, or the presence of practices with consistently negative reviews, would negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the modern healthcare landscape, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to receive a higher score. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. The absence of telemedicine options, or limited adoption, would lower the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical factor in assessing the health score. Rural communities often face shortages in mental health professionals, making it challenging for residents to access the care they need. The presence of mental health clinics, partnerships with mental health providers, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices would positively impact the score. Conversely, a lack of mental health resources would significantly detract from the overall assessment.

Analyzing specific practices within ZIP code 28670 requires a deep dive into the available data. This includes reviewing online patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the practice's commitment to preventative care. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education, offer extended hours, and accept a wide range of insurance plans would contribute positively to the health score. Similarly, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the use of data analytics to improve patient outcomes would also be considered favorably.

The assessment of the health score also considers the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacies, diagnostic imaging centers, and physical therapy clinics. The proximity and accessibility of these services are crucial for patients' convenience and overall health outcomes. The presence of a well-stocked pharmacy, a modern imaging center, and readily available physical therapy services would positively impact the score. The lack of such services, or their limited accessibility, would negatively affect the overall assessment.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the community's health indicators. This includes examining data on chronic disease prevalence, such as diabetes and heart disease, and assessing the rates of preventative care, such as vaccinations and screenings. Communities with higher rates of chronic diseases and lower rates of preventative care would likely receive a lower score. The presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs and outreach events, would be considered favorably.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Ronda, NC (ZIP code 28670) will be a composite measure reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is crucial to remember that this analysis is a snapshot in time and that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of new healthcare policies can all impact the overall health score.

This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the health of the community, identifying areas of strength and areas that need improvement. It serves as a valuable resource for residents seeking healthcare, potential healthcare providers considering establishing a practice in the area, and policymakers working to improve the health and well-being of the community. The ability to visualize these data points, and track changes over time, is crucial for understanding the healthcare landscape.