28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.43 percent of the residents in 28711 has some form of health insurance. 44.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.55 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 28711 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28711. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28711 and Primary Care Availability in Black Mountain**

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 28711, encompassing the town of Black Mountain, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. These elements, when assessed collectively, provide a comprehensive view of the community's access to and quality of healthcare. The goal is to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Data from various sources, including the US Department of Health & Human Services and state-level medical boards, are essential to accurately calculate this ratio for 28711. Any analysis must account for the types of physicians included (e.g., primary care, specialists) to refine the picture. A low ratio in primary care, for example, would be a significant concern, indicating potential bottlenecks in the healthcare system.

Black Mountain, as a relatively small community, might face unique challenges in physician recruitment and retention. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain medical professionals due to factors like geographic isolation, lifestyle preferences, and financial considerations. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) becomes critically important. The analysis must also consider the age and demographics of the population, as an aging population or a population with specific health needs can place additional strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure.

Identifying standout medical practices within 28711 is crucial. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality of care and patient satisfaction. Factors to consider include the practice's accreditation status (e.g., from the Joint Commission), patient reviews, and the range of services offered. Practices that integrate innovative approaches to patient care, such as care coordination programs or chronic disease management initiatives, should be highlighted. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can be considered to have a higher overall health score, as they are demonstrating a commitment to improving access and convenience for their patients.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, are often under-resourced, particularly in rural areas. The analysis must assess the presence of mental health providers in 28711, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors. It should also consider the availability of mental health support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services. A community with robust mental health resources will generally receive a higher overall health score.

The types of insurance accepted by local practices are also important. The analysis must consider whether practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. The ability to accept a variety of insurance plans ensures that a broader segment of the population can access healthcare services. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse population.

The presence of specialty care providers, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists, also impacts the overall health score. While primary care is the foundation of healthcare, access to specialists is often necessary for managing complex medical conditions. The analysis should identify the availability of specialty care providers in or near 28711. The need to travel long distances for specialty care can negatively impact access to care and the overall health score.

The analysis should also consider the presence of community health initiatives and programs. These initiatives, often run by local organizations or healthcare providers, can address specific health needs within the community. Examples include health education programs, chronic disease management programs, and free or low-cost clinics. Communities with a strong focus on community health initiatives often have a higher overall health score.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that can change over time based on various factors. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the development of new community health programs can all impact the score. Regular updates and re-evaluations are necessary to maintain an accurate picture of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis should include a detailed discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 28711. It should highlight areas where the community excels and areas where improvement is needed. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation.

The analysis should also provide recommendations for improving the overall health score. These recommendations might include strategies for attracting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing the availability of mental health resources.

The 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 28711 and primary care availability in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is complex and requires ongoing assessment. The factors outlined above, when analyzed in conjunction, offer a comprehensive view of the community's healthcare landscape. This analysis is intended to provide a foundation for future planning and improvement.

To further enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in Black Mountain and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data. Explore the power of visualization and data analysis with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.