28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.91 percent of the residents in 28742 has some form of health insurance. 36.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.14 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 28742 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 370 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28742. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28742, Horse Shoe, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Horse Shoe, NC (ZIP Code 28742)

Assessing the overall health landscape within the Horse Shoe, North Carolina (ZIP code 28742) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors impacting residents' access to and quality of healthcare, including physician availability, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights for residents, healthcare providers, and potential investors.

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

A fundamental indicator of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Horse Shoe, the precise ratio fluctuates based on data collection methodologies and the inclusion of specialists. However, the general trend suggests a potential challenge. Rural areas often experience a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions.

Primary care availability is crucial. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for healthcare, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic diseases. The availability of PCPs in Horse Shoe is likely impacted by the broader trends of physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and pediatricians within and around the ZIP code is critical. Analyzing the acceptance of new patients, the availability of same-day appointments, and the geographical distribution of practices are all essential elements in evaluating the overall accessibility of primary care.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Infrastructure:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into quality metrics, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of services offered. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the availability of specialized services such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology. The presence of a hospital or urgent care facility within a reasonable distance is also a significant factor.

The healthcare infrastructure in Horse Shoe, like many rural areas, may be less developed than in larger cities. The availability of diagnostic imaging services (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), laboratory services, and specialized medical equipment can significantly impact the quality of care. The presence of a well-equipped and readily accessible healthcare infrastructure contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Digital Health Integration:**

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine utilizes technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, including video consultations, remote patient monitoring, and electronic communication. The adoption rate among practices in Horse Shoe is a key indicator. Practices that embrace telemedicine can expand their reach, provide convenient access to care, and improve patient outcomes.

The integration of digital health tools, such as patient portals, online appointment scheduling, and mobile health apps, also plays a crucial role. These tools empower patients to manage their health more effectively, communicate with their providers, and access important information. The level of digital health integration within the practices in Horse Shoe contributes to the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical factor. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services within or easily accessible from Horse Shoe is essential.

The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is another important aspect. Collaborative care models, where primary care physicians work with mental health professionals, can improve access to mental healthcare and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. The availability of these services significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Specific Considerations and Challenges:**

The demographics of Horse Shoe, including the age distribution of the population and the prevalence of chronic diseases, also influence the overall health score. An aging population, for example, may require more specialized care and resources. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, highlights the need for preventative care, disease management programs, and access to specialists.

Transportation challenges in rural areas can also impact healthcare access. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, or patient transportation programs can mitigate these challenges. Addressing these specific considerations is crucial for developing a complete picture of the health landscape in Horse Shoe.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for Horse Shoe, NC (ZIP code 28742) is likely to be impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable than in urban areas. Primary care availability may be constrained. Telemedicine adoption, while potentially beneficial, requires careful assessment. Mental health resources are crucial and require evaluation. The presence of standout practices and a robust healthcare infrastructure will positively impact the score.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Horse Shoe is vital for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the availability and quality of healthcare services. For a more detailed and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare resources in Horse Shoe and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health facilities, explore the power of geospatial data.

**To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Horse Shoe and beyond, use CartoChrome maps to explore interactive maps and gain deeper insights into healthcare access and availability.**