28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.18 percent of the residents in 28671 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.69 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 28671 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 25 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28671. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,873 health care providers accessible to residents in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Rutherford College, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28671) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, considering these key elements.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Rutherford College, the concentration of these crucial healthcare providers directly impacts the community's ability to access preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and address acute illnesses. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 28671 ZIP code, and comparing that number to the estimated population, is the first step in determining the physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio indicates greater ease of access to care, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved health outcomes. Conversely, a low ratio can result in longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary treatments and exacerbating health issues.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these primary care physicians is paramount. Are the practices well-equipped with modern technology? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate the diverse needs of the community? Are they actively participating in preventative care initiatives, such as screenings for cancer and cardiovascular disease? These factors contribute significantly to the overall health score. Practices that prioritize patient education, utilize electronic health records effectively, and maintain a strong focus on patient communication are likely to score higher in this assessment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Rutherford College. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in 28671 is a crucial indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve health outcomes. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to receive a higher score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health resources is a critical factor in determining the health score. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the 28671 ZIP code is essential. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a growing trend that can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and contribute positively to the overall health score.

Standout practices within the community deserve specific recognition. These are the healthcare providers that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, embrace innovation, and actively contribute to the health and well-being of the community. Identifying these practices involves evaluating patient reviews, assessing their performance on quality metrics, and recognizing their commitment to community outreach and education. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers, driving improvements in the overall health landscape.

The assessment of the overall health score also considers the demographics of the population served by the primary care physicians in 28671. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the demand for healthcare services and the types of services that are needed. Understanding these demographic factors allows for a more nuanced assessment of the healthcare needs of the community and the effectiveness of the healthcare providers in meeting those needs.

The analysis also considers the presence of specialized medical services within the community or readily accessible in nearby areas. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and oncologists, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The proximity of hospitals and emergency services also plays a significant role in the overall health score, as it impacts the community's ability to respond to medical emergencies and access specialized care when needed.

Ultimately, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671) is a complex calculation that considers a multitude of factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the ever-changing healthcare landscape. The score is influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, the quality of care provided by individual practices, and the demographic characteristics of the population.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant facilities, consider exploring interactive maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services and help individuals make informed decisions about their health.

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