28719, Cherokee, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.45 percent of the residents in 28719 has some form of health insurance. 38.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.43 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 28719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,090 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 511 health care providers accessible to residents in 28719, Cherokee, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28719 and Primary Care Availability in Cherokee, North Carolina

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28719, which encompasses the town of Cherokee, North Carolina, and evaluating primary care availability within the broader Cherokee County requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

One of the primary indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Cherokee County, this metric is a crucial starting point. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, the area often faces challenges common to rural communities. These include a lower density of physicians compared to urban centers. This means that, on average, each primary care physician in the area may be responsible for a larger patient population. This can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing medical staff. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, along with information from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to estimate this ratio.

The availability of primary care physicians is also a critical factor. Primary care serves as the cornerstone of preventive care, chronic disease management, and overall health maintenance. Examining the distribution of these physicians within ZIP code 28719 and across Cherokee County is essential. Are primary care providers concentrated in specific areas, or are they spread out to better serve the entire population? The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians all contribute to the overall accessibility of primary care services.

Identifying standout practices within the area can provide valuable insights. Practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, or strong community engagement deserve recognition. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Some practices may also specialize in serving specific populations, such as the elderly or individuals with chronic conditions, making them particularly valuable resources.

The rise of telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine within ZIP code 28719 and Cherokee County involves assessing the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals. Factors to consider include the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology infrastructure in place, and the level of patient and provider acceptance.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Assessing the landscape involves examining the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. Additionally, understanding the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can highlight collaborative care models that improve access to mental healthcare.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, it is important to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. These factors include income levels, educational attainment, and access to healthy food and safe housing. Analyzing these factors in conjunction with healthcare data provides a more complete picture of the health challenges and opportunities within the community.

The challenges faced by rural communities, such as Cherokee County, often include limited access to specialized medical care. Residents may need to travel long distances to receive certain types of treatment. This can create barriers to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is a critical part of the overall health assessment.

Furthermore, collaboration between healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations is essential for improving healthcare outcomes. This collaboration can take various forms, such as shared care plans, joint training programs, and community health initiatives. Identifying examples of successful collaboration within ZIP code 28719 and Cherokee County can provide valuable insights into best practices.

Healthcare quality is a paramount concern. Evaluating the quality of care involves assessing a range of factors, including patient safety, the effectiveness of treatments, and the responsiveness of the healthcare system. Data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can be used to assess the quality of care provided by local practices and hospitals.

The role of public health initiatives in promoting health and preventing disease should also be considered. Local health departments play a crucial role in providing public health services, such as immunizations, health education, and disease surveillance. Assessing the effectiveness of these initiatives is essential for understanding the overall health of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 28719 and primary care availability in Cherokee County is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of primary care and specialist physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors all play a significant role. A thorough assessment of these factors, combined with an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, is essential for improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cherokee County, including the locations of medical facilities, physician density, and other relevant data points, we invite you to explore our interactive maps. Utilize the power of data visualization to gain deeper insights into the healthcare resources available in your community.

**Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape of Cherokee County and gain a clearer understanding of the resources available to you and your family.**