28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 41.07 percent of the residents in 28708 has some form of health insurance. 41.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.24 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 28708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28708. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 34 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,277 health care providers accessible to residents in 28708, Balsam Grove, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28708 and Primary Care Availability in Balsam Grove

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28708, which encompasses Balsam Grove and surrounding areas, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and integration of services. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, taking into account key factors impacting the health and well-being of the community.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. In 28708, the physician-to-patient ratio presents a significant challenge. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, being largely rural, often faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the population size. This scarcity necessitates residents potentially traveling longer distances to receive medical attention, adding a layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of medical practices available are crucial. The presence of a diverse range of specialists, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals, is essential for comprehensive healthcare. The availability of specialists within 28708, however, is likely limited. Residents may need to seek specialized care in larger towns or cities, further impacting accessibility and potentially increasing healthcare costs.

Standout practices within the area can significantly influence the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing innovative approaches and technologies. Identifying these practices involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of new technologies. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and provide multilingual services can be considered exemplary. This area may have a small number of practices that are able to meet the needs of the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like 28708, where geographic barriers can impede access to care. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and enhance access to specialists located outside the immediate area.

Mental health resources are also critical. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also important. The presence of these resources, or the lack thereof, significantly impacts the overall health score. The 28708 area may face challenges regarding mental health resources, potentially requiring residents to seek care outside the immediate community.

Furthermore, the presence of support services, such as patient education programs, chronic disease management programs, and community health initiatives, contributes to the overall health score. These services empower patients to take an active role in their health management and promote preventative care. The availability of these resources can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The lack of these resources can indicate a lower overall health score.

Evaluating the quality of care involves assessing factors such as patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the use of quality improvement initiatives. Practices that consistently demonstrate positive patient outcomes and prioritize quality improvement efforts contribute to a higher overall health score. This includes evaluating the patient experience and the use of technology to improve the quality of care.

Another factor to consider is the affordability of healthcare. The cost of medical services, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and prescription medications, can significantly impact access to care. The availability of affordable healthcare options, including government assistance programs and community health clinics, is a crucial factor in evaluating the overall health score. The high cost of healthcare can prevent people from getting the care they need.

Accessibility also includes the availability of transportation. The lack of transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, and community transportation programs, is an important factor in evaluating the overall health score.

Considering all these factors, the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 28708 and primary care availability in Balsam Grove is likely moderate to low. The area faces challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, limited access to specialists, and potential shortages of mental health resources. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of community support services may vary. Improving the overall health score requires addressing these challenges through strategic initiatives, such as recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding access to mental health services, and promoting the adoption of telemedicine.

The analysis highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence healthcare access and quality in 28708. While this assessment provides a general overview, a more detailed understanding requires in-depth data analysis. To visualize these complex relationships and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28708, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.