28778, Swannanoa, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28778, Swannanoa, North Carolina is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.39 percent of the residents in 28778 has some form of health insurance. 38.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.88 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 28778 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,880 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28778. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,703 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 28778, Swannanoa, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Swannanoa, NC (ZIP Code 28778)

Analyzing the overall health score for residents of Swannanoa, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28778) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon readily available primary care. In Swannanoa, assessing this availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that residents commonly access. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While a universally accepted ideal ratio doesn't exist, a higher ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Local and regional data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for accurately calculating this ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the types of practices present significantly impact care accessibility. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger, multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often offer a broader range of services under one roof, potentially streamlining care coordination. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also crucial, as these organizations typically serve underserved populations and offer sliding-scale fee structures. The location of these practices within the ZIP code and their proximity to public transportation are also important considerations for residents.

Identifying standout practices requires more in-depth research. This includes analyzing patient reviews, surveying local community members, and assessing the practices' participation in quality improvement initiatives. Do these practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits? Are they recognized for their commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, or patient education? Practices that actively engage in these areas often contribute to a higher overall health score for the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Swannanoa. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices is a key indicator. Do physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, or online patient portals? Telemedicine can improve access for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. The availability of reliable internet access within the community also impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources in Swannanoa involves identifying the number of mental health providers practicing within the ZIP code and the broader region. Are there outpatient mental health clinics, support groups, or crisis intervention services available? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is another important factor, as this can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized care, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, while not directly impacting primary care availability, contributes to the overall health ecosystem. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access them are factors to consider. The availability of local hospitals and urgent care facilities also plays a role in the community's health score, especially in emergency situations.

Analyzing the data and assessing the availability of healthcare resources is just the first step. The next step involves understanding the utilization of these resources. Do residents have health insurance? Are they utilizing preventative care services, such as annual checkups and screenings? Are there any disparities in healthcare access based on socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity? These factors can significantly impact the overall health score of the community.

The presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs, wellness programs, and support groups, also contributes to the overall health score. These initiatives can empower residents to take control of their health and promote healthy behaviors. Partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies can enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Finally, the overall health score for Swannanoa, NC (ZIP Code 28778) is not static. It is a dynamic measure that can change over time based on various factors, including population growth, changes in healthcare policies, and the adoption of new technologies. Regular assessments and updates are essential to ensure that the community's health needs are being met. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the current state of healthcare in Swannanoa and identifying areas for improvement.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Swannanoa, including the locations of medical practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and the accessibility of various healthcare resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. This tool can provide a detailed and dynamic view of the community's health resources, empowering residents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions.