28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.37 percent of the residents in 28683 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.65 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 28683 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28683. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28683 & Thurmond Primary Care**

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28683, which encompasses the community of Thurmond, requires a multifaceted approach. We must delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, alongside the broader healthcare infrastructure. This analysis will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in Thurmond, North Carolina, and its strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Thurmond, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the precise ratio for 28683 necessitates accessing data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. This data provides the raw numbers of practicing primary care physicians and the total population. The resulting ratio offers a baseline understanding of the community's access to primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and characteristics of the available primary care practices are crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Are they equipped with the latest technology, such as electronic health records and patient portals? These factors significantly impact patient experience and the efficiency of healthcare delivery. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code involves researching patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and evaluating their commitment to patient-centered care. This might include looking for practices that emphasize communication, patient education, and shared decision-making.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Thurmond. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely via video conferencing or phone calls. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living far from medical facilities, or those seeking follow-up care. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices within 28683 offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Success depends on reliable internet connectivity and patient comfort with technology.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. Assessing the mental health landscape in Thurmond requires identifying local providers, evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and determining the accessibility of these services. This includes examining insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of crisis intervention services. The presence of community-based mental health programs and support groups also contributes to a more robust mental health infrastructure.

In addition to these factors, the overall health score is influenced by the availability of other healthcare services, such as specialist physicians, hospitals, and pharmacies. The proximity of these facilities, the quality of care they provide, and the ease of access are all important considerations. Furthermore, the socioeconomic characteristics of the community, such as income levels, education attainment, and access to healthy food options, can significantly impact health outcomes. These factors are not always directly quantifiable but must be considered when forming a comprehensive picture of the overall health of the community.

Analyzing the specific healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28683 requires a systematic approach, combining data analysis with qualitative assessments. A thorough investigation involves several key steps. First, collecting data on the number of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code. Second, compiling information on the services offered by each practice, including telemedicine capabilities, extended hours, and patient-centered care initiatives. Third, researching patient reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and identify any areas of concern. Fourth, assessing the availability of mental health resources, including the number of providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. Fifth, evaluating the proximity of hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities. Finally, considering the socioeconomic characteristics of the community and their potential impact on health outcomes.

The data gathered from these various sources is then synthesized to create an overall health score. This score can be presented in several ways, such as a numerical rating, a letter grade, or a color-coded system. The score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within 28683. For example, a high score might indicate a high physician-to-patient ratio, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, and ample mental health resources. Conversely, a low score might indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health support.

The overall health score is not a static measure; it should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This could include new practices opening, existing practices expanding their services, or changes in the socioeconomic characteristics of the community. By monitoring these changes, the overall health score can provide a valuable tool for assessing the health of the community and identifying areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to make informed decisions about healthcare resources and services.

Understanding the healthcare environment in Thurmond is vital for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. The analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation and highlights areas for improvement. By focusing on increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine options, and improving access to mental health resources, the community can work towards a healthier future. This detailed assessment provides a foundation for informed decision-making and strategic planning to improve the overall well-being of the residents of Thurmond.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Thurmond and explore the data in a dynamic and interactive way, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you understand the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and track changes over time.