28762, Old Fort, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.91 percent of the residents in 28762 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.82 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 28762 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28762. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,712 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,664 health care providers accessible to residents in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28762 and Primary Care Availability in Old Fort

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 28762, encompassing the town of Old Fort, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratios, examine the presence of standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption rates, and explore the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the current state of healthcare within this specific geographic area.

One of the foundational elements of a healthy community is the accessibility of primary care physicians. Within the confines of Old Fort, the availability of these essential healthcare providers is a critical factor. Data regarding the number of practicing primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine specialists, needs to be compared to the population size of the area. This will allow for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access to care. A lower ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, often suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving comprehensive care.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 28762 likely presents a mixed picture. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This can lead to higher patient-to-physician ratios compared to more urbanized regions. Further investigation is needed to determine the precise figures for this specific ZIP code. Factors such as the presence of larger medical groups or hospital affiliations can influence the availability of primary care.

Identifying standout practices within the Old Fort area is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. This involves assessing the reputation of existing medical facilities, considering patient reviews, and evaluating the range of services offered. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and have a strong track record of positive health outcomes would naturally contribute to a higher overall health score. Investigating the accreditations and certifications held by these practices, along with their commitment to preventative care and chronic disease management, is also essential.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor to consider. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The extent to which primary care physicians in 28762 utilize telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of healthcare. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient engagement, reduce travel time, and potentially improve health outcomes.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within Old Fort is a significant determinant of the health score. Assessing the number of mental health providers, their accessibility, and the types of services they offer is essential. Furthermore, examining the presence of community mental health programs, support groups, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health specialists is vital. A robust mental health infrastructure contributes significantly to the well-being of the community.

The overall health score for 28762 will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with readily accessible primary care physicians, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, a strong presence of quality medical practices, widespread adoption of telemedicine, and ample access to mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and improvements.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios should consider the specific demographics of Old Fort. Factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the presence of vulnerable populations (e.g., low-income individuals, elderly residents) can influence the demand for healthcare services. Understanding these demographic characteristics is essential for accurately assessing the adequacy of primary care availability.

Standout practices can be identified through various means. Examining online patient reviews, consulting with local community organizations, and reviewing the practice's accreditations and certifications are all valuable sources of information. Practices that are recognized for their commitment to patient satisfaction, their use of evidence-based medicine, and their dedication to community outreach should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption rates can be determined by surveying local primary care practices. Questions should focus on the types of telemedicine services offered, the number of patients utilizing these services, and the barriers to adoption that practices may face. This information is crucial for understanding the current state of telemedicine and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Mental health resource accessibility can be evaluated by compiling a directory of mental health providers in the area, including their specialties, contact information, and accepted insurance plans. This directory should also include information about community mental health programs, support groups, and crisis intervention services.

The overall health score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential for tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring that the healthcare needs of the Old Fort community are being met. This requires ongoing data collection, analysis, and collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

The findings of this analysis can inform strategic planning and resource allocation. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is high, efforts can be made to attract more physicians to the area. If telemedicine adoption is low, initiatives can be implemented to promote the use of technology in healthcare. If mental health resources are limited, steps can be taken to expand access to mental health services.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28762 and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points. By visualizing this information on a map, you can gain a deeper understanding of the health disparities and opportunities for improvement within the community.