28715, Candler, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28715, Candler, North Carolina is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.47 percent of the residents in 28715 has some form of health insurance. 33.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 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 28715 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28715. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,528 health care providers accessible to residents in 28715, Candler, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Candler, North Carolina (ZIP code 28715) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This score is not a single numerical value but a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access:**

A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio for Candler specifically requires data from multiple sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the North Carolina Medical Board, and potentially local hospital systems. However, we can infer certain aspects. Candler, being a more rural area, likely faces challenges compared to more urban centers. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial as they serve as the gateway to the healthcare system. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions, and overall poorer health outcomes. The analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the types of practices they operate (solo, group, hospital-affiliated), and their patient load capacity.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. The quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered are essential. Practices that embrace technology, offer extended hours, and provide a patient-centered experience often stand out. Examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data on quality metrics (if available) helps assess a practice's reputation. Furthermore, the practice's integration with local hospitals and specialists is crucial for seamless care coordination. Practices that actively participate in population health initiatives and community outreach programs also contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within or near the ZIP code significantly enhances the healthcare landscape.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate is a key factor. Practices that offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic prescription refills, improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The quality of the telemedicine platform, the ease of use for patients, and the integration with the practice's electronic health record (EHR) system are crucial considerations. Telemedicine also expands access to specialists who may not be physically present in the area. The level of insurance coverage for telemedicine services is another critical factor, as it directly impacts patient affordability and utilization.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources within Candler is a critical factor in the 'Overall Health Score'. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The accessibility of these professionals, considering factors like insurance acceptance, wait times, and geographical proximity, is crucial. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also enhances the mental health landscape. Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, such as integrated behavioral health services, can improve care coordination and patient outcomes. The availability of substance abuse treatment programs is also a vital element.

**Overall Assessment and Nuances:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Candler, NC (ZIP code 28715) is influenced by the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates robust access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, well-regarded practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in one or more of these areas. It's important to note that this analysis is a snapshot in time and is subject to change. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and factors like physician turnover, changes in insurance coverage, and technological advancements can significantly impact the 'Overall Health Score'. Furthermore, the specific needs of the population, including age demographics, chronic disease prevalence, and socioeconomic factors, must be considered for a complete understanding.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in a specific area is crucial for both residents and healthcare providers. The data used for this analysis, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and service availability, can be visualized and analyzed effectively using geographic information systems (GIS). CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and exploring this complex data. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Candler, NC (ZIP code 28715), and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Explore the power of spatial analysis and discover the insights that CartoChrome maps can provide.