28682, Terrell, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28682, Terrell, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.19 percent of the residents in 28682 has some form of health insurance. 39.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.29 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 28682 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 289 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28682. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,431 health care providers accessible to residents in 28682, Terrell, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Terrell, NC (ZIP Code 28682)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Terrell, North Carolina (ZIP code 28682) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the number of physicians. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, we aim to provide an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the community's well-being.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Terrell, assessing this requires examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 28682 ZIP code, or readily accessible within a reasonable driving distance. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. The proximity of these physicians to the population is crucial. A high concentration of PCPs within the area, or in neighboring towns like Mooresville or Statesville, generally indicates better access. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

Calculating the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. This ratio, expressed as the number of patients per physician, provides a quantifiable measure of access. National benchmarks can be used for comparison. A ratio that is significantly higher than the national average might indicate a shortage of PCPs, placing a strain on existing physicians and potentially limiting the time they can dedicate to each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more personalized care and potentially improved health outcomes. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates for the 28682 ZIP code, is necessary to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Terrell.

Identifying standout practices within Terrell is another important aspect. These are medical facilities that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize innovative technologies, and offer a wide range of services. This could involve practices that have received positive patient reviews, are recognized for their commitment to preventative care, or have implemented advanced electronic health record systems. The presence of a well-regarded practice can significantly improve the overall health score by providing a high standard of care and serving as a model for other providers. Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs or geriatric care, can also contribute to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, or secure messaging, can significantly improve access, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine in Terrell involves examining the number of practices offering virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, mental health counseling), and the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and access.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing mental health concerns. Assessing this aspect involves identifying the number of mental health providers practicing within the 28682 ZIP code or nearby areas. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers are also important indicators. A community with robust mental health resources will generally receive a higher score, reflecting its commitment to holistic well-being. The integration of mental healthcare with primary care, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated treatment, is a particularly positive indicator.

Evaluating the overall health score requires synthesizing all the above factors. The final score should reflect the interplay of these elements. For instance, a high physician-to-patient ratio might negatively impact the score, even if there are standout practices. Conversely, a strong telemedicine presence and robust mental health resources could partially offset a lower physician-to-patient ratio. The specific weighting of each factor should be determined based on its relative importance to overall health outcomes.

The challenges facing Terrell, and similar rural communities, often include physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the need for improved mental health services. The health score should highlight these challenges, providing a roadmap for improvement. The score should also recognize the strengths of the community, such as the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals and the adoption of innovative technologies.

The ongoing monitoring of the health score is essential. Healthcare is a dynamic field, and the availability of services, the adoption of new technologies, and the needs of the community are constantly evolving. Regular updates to the health score, based on the latest data, will provide a valuable tool for tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring that the community's healthcare needs are being met.

Ultimately, the Overall Health Score for Terrell, NC (ZIP code 28682) will serve as a comprehensive assessment of the community's healthcare landscape. It will provide valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to promote a healthier and more vibrant community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Terrell, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to specialized services, explore the power of geospatial data with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize and understand the health resources available in your community.