28702, Almond, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28702, Almond, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.22 percent of the residents in 28702 has some form of health insurance. 28.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.33 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 28702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 28702, Almond, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28702 and Primary Care Availability in Almond, North Carolina**

Assessing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28702, encompassing the Almond, North Carolina area, requires a multifaceted approach. We must delve beyond a simple headcount of physicians and consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, providing actionable insights for residents and potential healthcare providers.

The initial hurdle in evaluating healthcare access is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric, a crucial indicator of service accessibility, reflects the number of residents served by each primary care physician (PCP). In Almond, a rural community, this ratio is likely to be a key determinant of the overall health score. If the ratio is high, indicating fewer PCPs relative to the population, residents may face challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and, consequently, a higher health score component. Precise figures on the current ratio for 28702 are essential for a definitive assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care services must be evaluated. This includes examining the range of services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the availability of support staff. Are there established practices with a long history of serving the community? Do these practices offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are there specialists within the area, or must patients travel to access specialized care? The presence of well-regarded practices with a comprehensive suite of services significantly elevates the health score. Conversely, a lack of established practices or a limited range of services will negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Almond. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians without the need for extensive travel. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a key indicator of the health score. High adoption rates suggest a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, boosting the score. Limited or no telemedicine adoption, on the other hand, indicates a potential barrier to accessing care, lowering the score.

Mental health resources are often underrepresented in rural areas, making their availability a significant factor in the health score. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is crucial. Are there local mental health clinics? Do primary care physicians offer mental health screenings or basic counseling services? The presence of robust mental health support, including access to medication management and therapy, is essential for a high health score. A scarcity of mental health resources, leading to long wait times or the need to travel long distances for care, significantly detracts from the overall assessment.

The presence of specialized care within or near 28702 also affects the health score. While primary care forms the foundation of healthcare, access to specialists is crucial for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex medical needs. The availability of specialists such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, either within the ZIP code or in nearby areas, is a positive indicator. The need to travel long distances to access specialized care can negatively impact the score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic illnesses.

Standout practices within the area deserve specific recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, adopt innovative technologies, or actively engage in community outreach can provide valuable insights. These practices may serve as models for other providers and contribute to a higher overall health score for the community. Their success stories can inform best practices and inspire improvements across the healthcare landscape.

Furthermore, the health score is influenced by the overall health of the community. Factors such as the prevalence of chronic diseases, the rates of preventative care utilization, and the socioeconomic status of the population all play a role. A community with a high prevalence of chronic diseases and low rates of preventative care may have a lower health score, even if physician availability is adequate. Addressing these broader health determinants is crucial for improving the overall health of the community.

Finally, patient satisfaction and feedback are essential. Gathering data on patient experiences, including wait times, communication with providers, and the overall quality of care, provides a valuable perspective. Positive patient feedback and high satisfaction scores are indicative of a well-functioning healthcare system and contribute to a higher health score. Conversely, negative feedback and low satisfaction scores can highlight areas needing improvement.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 28702 and primary care availability in Almond requires a holistic approach. This analysis must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialized care availability, and patient satisfaction. While a precise numerical score requires detailed data collection and analysis, this framework provides a comprehensive understanding of the key factors that determine the health and well-being of the community.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28702 and surrounding areas, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic way to visualize healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.