28717, Cashiers, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28717, Cashiers, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.67 percent of the residents in 28717 has some form of health insurance. 38.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.54 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 28717 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28717. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 428 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 938 health care providers accessible to residents in 28717, Cashiers, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Cashiers, NC (ZIP Code 28717)**

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Cashiers, North Carolina (ZIP code 28717) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. We must delve into physician availability, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis will culminate in an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, providing a nuanced understanding of the community's healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Cashiers, the geographical isolation and the seasonal influx of residents and tourists can significantly impact access. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric provides a snapshot of the potential burden on existing medical providers. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and exacerbating existing health conditions. Data from reputable sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with local population estimates, is essential to establish this ratio accurately.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Evaluating the reputation of existing practices involves considering patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate varied schedules? The presence of specialists, even if not directly within the primary care setting, is a significant factor. Easy access to specialists in cardiology, endocrinology, and other critical fields contributes to a more robust healthcare ecosystem.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a critical component of healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate among primary care physicians in Cashiers is a key indicator. Does the community have access to virtual consultations, prescription refills, and remote monitoring of chronic conditions? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with convenient and timely access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility and patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are an indispensable element of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a critical factor. Are there local mental health clinics or partnerships with larger healthcare systems that provide mental health services? The integration of mental health services within primary care settings is also beneficial, as it promotes early detection and intervention. The presence of support groups and community-based mental health initiatives further enhances the community's ability to address mental health needs.

Assessing the infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery is essential. This includes the availability of pharmacies, diagnostic imaging services (x-rays, MRIs), and laboratory testing facilities. Proximity to a hospital or emergency room is another critical consideration, especially for managing acute medical needs. The efficiency and accessibility of these support services directly impact the overall quality of care.

Specific practices within the Cashiers area should be examined for their strengths and weaknesses. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their patient satisfaction scores, the range of services they offer, and their commitment to patient education and preventative care. Are there practices that are particularly well-regarded for their geriatric care, pediatric care, or management of chronic diseases? Highlighting these practices can provide valuable information to residents seeking healthcare services.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Cashiers, NC (28717) will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted averages of the factors discussed. Physician-to-patient ratios, primary care practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and support infrastructure will all contribute to the final score. This score will provide a comprehensive overview of the community's healthcare landscape, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

In conclusion, the healthcare environment in Cashiers, NC (28717) presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While geographical isolation and seasonal population fluctuations pose hurdles, the community can mitigate these challenges through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The 'Overall Health Score' serves as a valuable tool for understanding the current state of healthcare access and quality, and it can inform efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Cashiers and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, facility accessibility, and other critical healthcare data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide an intuitive and informative way to analyze healthcare data and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.