28675, Sparta, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28675, Sparta, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.17 percent of the residents in 28675 has some form of health insurance. 51.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.55 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 28675 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,109 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28675. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,669 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 221 health care providers accessible to residents in 28675, Sparta, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sparta, NC (ZIP Code 28675)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Sparta, North Carolina (ZIP code 28675) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. It demands a deep dive into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of modern healthcare technologies like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for the region, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

Sparta, a rural community nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Geographic isolation, an aging population, and socioeconomic factors contribute to the complexities of providing adequate medical care. The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of a healthy community. A low physician-to-patient ratio signifies potential barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical attention. The national average for this ratio is around 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people. Sparta's ratio, when examined, likely falls below this benchmark, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

Assessing the quality of care requires examining the practices within the ZIP code. Identifying standout practices involves scrutinizing their patient satisfaction scores, physician qualifications, and the range of services offered. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, offering extended hours, same-day appointments, and comprehensive preventative care, tend to score higher. Examining the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, and the integration of electronic health records are critical indicators of quality. Without specific data on individual practices, it is difficult to provide an exhaustive ranking. However, a general assessment would consider the number of physicians, their specialties, and the types of services offered by the clinics in the area.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in assessing the health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers a powerful solution to the challenges of rural healthcare. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians via video calls, receive remote monitoring, and access specialist care that might not be available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Sparta's primary care practices would significantly impact the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and a recognition of the need to improve access to care. Conversely, practices that lag in telemedicine adoption may be limiting their patients' access to essential services.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services in Sparta is a critical factor in determining the health score. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is essential for addressing mental health concerns, which can significantly impact physical health and overall well-being. Evaluating the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (insurance acceptance, wait times) is vital. A community with limited mental health resources would likely receive a lower overall health score, as it would be less equipped to address the complex needs of its residents.

Furthermore, the integration of social determinants of health (SDOH) into healthcare delivery is increasingly recognized as essential. SDOH encompass factors such as socioeconomic status, education, access to transportation, and housing stability, all of which can significantly impact health outcomes. Practices that actively address SDOH by providing resources, referrals, and support services for their patients are likely to demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient well-being. Assessing the degree to which Sparta's primary care practices address SDOH would further refine the overall health score.

The overall health score for Sparta (ZIP code 28675) is, therefore, a composite measure. It reflects the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the integration of SDOH into healthcare delivery. The score would likely be negatively impacted by a low physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to specialized care. Conversely, practices that embrace telemedicine, prioritize patient-centered care, and provide comprehensive mental health services would contribute positively to the score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sparta, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful visualization tool, allowing you to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access to care, and analyze demographic data in relation to health outcomes. By leveraging the capabilities of CartoChrome maps, you can gain a deeper insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Sparta's healthcare system.