28713, Bryson City, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28713, Bryson City, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.67 percent of the residents in 28713 has some form of health insurance. 44.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.40 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 28713 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,943 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28713. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,750 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 926 health care providers accessible to residents in 28713, Bryson City, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the overall health landscape within the 28713 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability in Bryson City, North Carolina. We will delve into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare ecosystem and its strengths and weaknesses.

Bryson City, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area, coupled with its aging population and prevalence of chronic health conditions, necessitates a robust and accessible primary care system. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. This metric, reflecting the number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents, offers a direct measure of access. A lower ratio indicates a greater likelihood of difficulty in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care.

Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data for a specific ZIP code like 28713 can be challenging to obtain publicly. However, we can infer certain conditions based on broader county-level data and the general trends of rural healthcare. Swain County, where Bryson City is located, likely faces a physician shortage compared to more urban areas. This shortage can lead to longer wait times, increased travel distances for appointments, and a potential strain on existing medical professionals.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. These practices often serve as models for quality care and innovation. This involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing preventative care and chronic disease management, are particularly valuable. While specific practice names require real-time data, the presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics often indicates a commitment to serving underserved populations and offering comprehensive primary care services.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital aspect of healthcare in rural areas. It can significantly improve access to care by reducing the need for travel and connecting patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. The degree to which practices in 28713 have embraced telemedicine, whether through video consultations, remote monitoring, or secure messaging, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care. Examining the availability of telehealth services for routine check-ups, chronic disease management, and specialist consultations is key to understanding the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being, and their availability is a significant factor in evaluating the health landscape. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial, particularly in areas facing economic challenges or social isolation. Evaluating the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of substance abuse treatment programs, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices provides a comprehensive picture of mental health support within the community.

The overall health score for 28713, based on these factors, is likely influenced by several competing forces. The rural setting and potential physician shortage may negatively affect access to care, driving down the score. However, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges and improve the overall health score. The score will be influenced by the quality of the services offered, the level of patient satisfaction, and the degree to which the healthcare system addresses the specific needs of the community.

To improve the health score, several strategies can be implemented. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources are crucial. Supporting community health initiatives, promoting preventative care, and addressing social determinants of health, such as poverty and food insecurity, are also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is vital to creating a comprehensive and effective healthcare system.

The overall health score is dynamic and requires ongoing assessment. Regular monitoring of key metrics, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and patient satisfaction scores, is essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Community feedback and patient experiences provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the healthcare system.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 28713 and primary care availability in Bryson City requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. While challenges exist due to the rural setting, opportunities for improvement through targeted interventions and community collaboration are abundant. The success of the healthcare system depends on the dedication of healthcare professionals, the support of community organizations, and the commitment of local government.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28713 and beyond, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. These tools can provide valuable insights into healthcare access, resource distribution, and community health needs.