28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.59 percent of the residents in 28775 has some form of health insurance. 68.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.94 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 28775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28775 and Primary Care Availability in Scaly Mountain

Assessing the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach, considering various factors that influence access to and quality of care. This analysis focuses on doctors practicing within ZIP Code 28775, which encompasses Scaly Mountain, North Carolina, and evaluates the availability of primary care services. The goal is to provide an 'Overall Health Score' based on key metrics, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The foundation of any health score lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the availability of doctors relative to the population size. In the context of Scaly Mountain (28775), a relatively small, rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be a significant factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely care. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to reach medical facilities, and potentially, a reduced ability to establish strong patient-physician relationships. Accurate data on the current population and the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code is essential for calculating this ratio. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide this data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of medical practices available are crucial. Are there a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and other healthcare providers? The presence of PCPs is particularly critical, as they often serve as the entry point into the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists, is also vital, especially in an area that may have an aging population or specific health needs. The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics can also influence the health score, providing convenient access to care for non-emergency situations.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is important. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, or a commitment to community health. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Examining online reviews, soliciting feedback from community members, and researching the practice's reputation within the medical community can help identify these standout performers. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute to raising the overall quality of care in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. It can reduce travel barriers, expand the reach of specialists, and provide convenient access to follow-up appointments and consultations. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among physicians in 28775 involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the patient population that utilizes these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in 28775 involves evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there adequate resources to address the mental health needs of the community? This includes access to individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. The availability of crisis intervention services, such as a local mental health hotline or emergency room services, is also vital. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for integrated care. A lack of adequate mental health resources can significantly detract from the overall health score.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as pharmacies, laboratories, and imaging centers, contributes to the health score. Easy access to these services ensures that patients can obtain necessary medications, undergo diagnostic tests, and receive timely treatment. The presence of a local hospital or medical center is also a significant factor, providing a safety net for emergency care and specialized services.

The socio-economic factors of the community also play a significant role. Income levels, educational attainment, and access to transportation can all influence health outcomes. Areas with higher poverty rates and limited access to transportation may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Understanding the socio-economic profile of the community is essential for a comprehensive health score assessment.

Finally, assessing the health score requires a comprehensive approach. It is important to consider the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within the ZIP code. Addressing the shortcomings and building upon the strengths can lead to a more robust and accessible healthcare system for the residents of Scaly Mountain.

The health score is not a static number. It should be regularly evaluated and updated as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular monitoring of key metrics, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28775, including the location of medical practices, access to services, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the information and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Scaly Mountain.