28741, Highlands, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.59 percent of the residents in 28741 has some form of health insurance. 45.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.78 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 28741 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 357 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28741. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,630 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 943 health care providers accessible to residents in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Highlands, NC (ZIP Code 28741)**

This analysis provides an assessment of the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28741, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Highlands, North Carolina. We will examine key factors influencing health outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation will contribute to an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

The geographical isolation of Highlands, nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges to healthcare delivery. The town’s relatively small population, coupled with its status as a popular tourist destination, creates fluctuating demands on healthcare services. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in evaluating the health score.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Highlands necessitates careful consideration of both the permanent resident population and the seasonal influx of visitors. Publicly available data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, offer some insights. However, these sources may not fully capture the impact of tourism. A lower physician-to-patient ratio is generally associated with improved access to care. Highlands' ratio likely fluctuates significantly throughout the year, potentially straining resources during peak tourist seasons. Further investigation, including direct contact with local healthcare providers, would be needed for a precise calculation. This ratio serves as a foundational metric, influencing the overall health score.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing several factors, including patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and testimonials, contribute positively to the health score. The availability of comprehensive primary care services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized services, is also critical. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or offer extended hours can significantly enhance access to care, further boosting the score. The presence of board-certified physicians and nurses is a positive factor.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve healthcare access in rural communities like Highlands. Its adoption rate among local practices is a key indicator of the health score. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and convenience. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. The integration of telemedicine into existing care models contributes to a higher health score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health services are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Highlands' relatively small size may present challenges in providing a comprehensive range of mental health resources. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups is essential. The presence of these resources, along with their accessibility and affordability, directly influences the community's mental health outcomes. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access and coordination of care. The availability of crisis intervention services and mental health support for children and adolescents are also important considerations.

**Overall Health Score and its Components:**

The overall health score is a composite metric reflecting the collective influence of the factors discussed above. A higher score indicates a healthier community with better access to and quality of healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources each contribute to the score. The weight assigned to each factor may vary depending on the specific methodology used. For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio might have a lower score, even if the practice is otherwise excellent. A practice offering telehealth services might have a higher score, even if it is otherwise average. The overall health score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem.

**Specifics within Highlands:**

In the context of Highlands, NC, the health score is likely influenced by the town's demographic characteristics, including an aging population and a significant seasonal population. The availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, orthopedics, and dermatology, is also relevant. The presence of a local hospital or clinic, along with its capacity to handle emergencies and provide inpatient care, is a crucial factor. The town’s proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities, such as Asheville, North Carolina, can mitigate some of the limitations of a smaller healthcare system.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

Highlands faces several challenges in maintaining a high health score. These include the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals, the need to address the healthcare needs of an aging population, and the potential for healthcare disparities among different segments of the community. However, the town also has opportunities to improve its health score. These include leveraging telemedicine to expand access to care, promoting preventative care initiatives, and fostering collaboration among healthcare providers. The town's strong community spirit and its commitment to quality of life can also contribute to a healthier environment.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the overall health score for Highlands, NC, requires a comprehensive evaluation of its healthcare resources and the community's health needs. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. Highlands' unique geographical and demographic characteristics present both challenges and opportunities. The town's commitment to improving healthcare access and quality will determine its overall health score.

**Call to Action:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Highlands, NC, and other areas? Explore the power of spatial data and interactive mapping with CartoChrome maps. Gain insights into healthcare access, demographics, and more. Visit CartoChrome maps today to unlock the potential of location intelligence and enhance your understanding of healthcare delivery.