28694, West Jefferson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28694, West Jefferson, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 28694 has some form of health insurance. 41.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.64 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 28694 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,285 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28694. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,805 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 363 health care providers accessible to residents in 28694, West Jefferson, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: West Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28694)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the West Jefferson, North Carolina area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28694. We examine the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, explore the presence of standout practices, gauge telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive review aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in this rural community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Within ZIP code 28694, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. A low concentration of physicians can lead to delayed care, increased travel times for appointments, and potentially poorer health outcomes. The assessment begins with an investigation into the number of practicing primary care physicians within the defined geographic area. This number is then compared against the population size to determine the physician-to-patient ratio.

A favorable physician-to-patient ratio is critical for ensuring that residents have adequate access to healthcare. The national average is often used as a benchmark, and any deviation from this average can indicate areas of concern. A ratio significantly higher than the national average suggests a potential shortage of physicians, placing a greater burden on existing providers and potentially limiting access to timely care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a potentially more accessible healthcare environment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is also assessed. This involves identifying standout practices within the ZIP code and evaluating their performance based on patient reviews, the range of services offered, and their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records are often considered more patient-focused and contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like West Jefferson. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices is a key component of the health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are often able to reach a wider patient base and provide more convenient care options. The availability of telehealth services is particularly important for residents who may face geographical barriers or transportation challenges.

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources significantly impacts the health score. The assessment examines the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. It also considers the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also evaluated, as this can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

The evaluation also considers the presence of community resources that support overall health. This includes the availability of health education programs, wellness initiatives, and support groups for chronic conditions. The presence of these resources can empower residents to take a proactive role in their health and contribute to a healthier community.

Specifics regarding physician-to-patient ratios in 28694 require data from reliable sources. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or state-level medical boards will be consulted to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio. This will involve identifying the number of active primary care physicians within the ZIP code and dividing it by the population of 28694. This ratio will then be compared to national and state averages to assess the relative accessibility of primary care.

Identifying standout practices involves a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews from reputable sources like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews are analyzed to gauge patient satisfaction. The practices' websites and promotional materials are examined to determine the range of services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized services. Practices that have received awards or recognition for quality of care are also noted.

Telemedicine adoption is assessed by contacting primary care practices within the ZIP code and inquiring about their telemedicine capabilities. This includes asking about the types of virtual consultations offered, the platforms used, and the frequency of telemedicine appointments. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow and offer a wide range of virtual services will receive a higher score in this area.

Mental health resource assessment involves identifying the number and types of mental health providers within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes searching online directories, consulting with local health organizations, and reviewing community resource guides. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is also evaluated. The presence of integrated mental health services within primary care practices is also considered.

The presence of health education programs, wellness initiatives, and support groups for chronic conditions is assessed by researching local community resources. This includes contacting local health departments, hospitals, and community organizations. The availability of these resources is considered a positive factor in the overall health score.

The final 'Overall Health Score' is a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources are all weighted heavily. The presence of community resources and other supporting factors are also considered. The final score provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in West Jefferson, NC (28694).

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare environment in West Jefferson, NC. Further investigation, including on-site visits and interviews with healthcare providers and community members, would provide a more in-depth understanding. The information presented here is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Want to visualize this data and explore the healthcare landscape in West Jefferson and beyond? Visit CartoChrome maps for interactive maps and detailed visualizations of healthcare resources and demographics.