28679, Sugar Grove, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28679, Sugar Grove, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.11 percent of the residents in 28679 has some form of health insurance. 29.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.00 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 28679 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28679. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 549 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 512 health care providers accessible to residents in 28679, Sugar Grove, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sugar Grove, NC (ZIP Code 28679)

Sugar Grove, North Carolina, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the overall health score for this community requires a comprehensive assessment of several key factors, including physician availability, access to primary care, adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis will delve into these aspects, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in ZIP code 28679.

One of the primary concerns in rural areas is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio can significantly impact access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. While precise figures fluctuate, Sugar Grove likely faces challenges in this area. The limited population base, combined with the geographic isolation, makes it difficult to attract and retain a large number of physicians. This scarcity necessitates careful management of existing resources and creative solutions to ensure adequate healthcare access for residents.

Primary care availability is another crucial indicator of community health. Primary care physicians (PCPs) act as the first point of contact for healthcare needs, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Sugar Grove, the availability of PCPs directly influences the overall health score. Factors like the number of practices, the acceptance of new patients, and the types of services offered all contribute to the accessibility of primary care. Limited availability can force residents to travel significant distances for routine checkups and urgent care, creating a barrier to timely and effective healthcare.

Beyond the basic metrics of physician-to-patient ratios and primary care access, the adoption of modern healthcare practices plays a significant role. Telemedicine, in particular, has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in rural areas. By utilizing video conferencing and remote monitoring technologies, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive chronic disease management, and access mental health services without the need for extensive travel. The extent of telemedicine adoption among doctors in Sugar Grove directly impacts the community's health score. Practices that embrace these technologies demonstrate a commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in patient care, service delivery, and community engagement. They may excel in areas like patient communication, chronic disease management, or the use of technology to enhance the patient experience. Recognizing and highlighting these practices can inspire improvements across the healthcare landscape, ultimately contributing to a higher overall health score. The specific criteria for identifying standout practices would include patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the use of electronic health records (EHRs), and the practice’s commitment to community outreach and education.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability directly impacts the health score. Mental health issues are prevalent across all populations, and access to qualified mental health professionals is essential for early intervention and treatment. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in Sugar Grove, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services, are vital indicators of community health. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings is also a positive sign, facilitating easier access to these crucial services.

The overall health score for Sugar Grove, NC (ZIP Code 28679) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited primary care availability, and a lack of telemedicine adoption would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a strong network of primary care providers, widespread telemedicine use, and robust mental health resources would contribute to a higher score. The presence of standout practices, demonstrating excellence in patient care and service delivery, would further enhance the community's health profile.

In conclusion, assessing the health score requires a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability of resources and the quality of care provided. While Sugar Grove faces challenges common to rural areas, the community's health score can be improved through strategic initiatives. These initiatives should focus on attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding access to primary care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and strengthening mental health services. The identification and support of standout practices can also serve as a catalyst for positive change.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Sugar Grove and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to analyze healthcare data, identify areas with limited access, and visualize the impact of various factors on community health. By utilizing this powerful mapping tool, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Sugar Grove and identify opportunities for improvement.