28786, Waynesville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28786, Waynesville, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.51 percent of the residents in 28786 has some form of health insurance. 42.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.98 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 28786 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,022 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28786. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,398 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,468 health care providers accessible to residents in 28786, Waynesville, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Waynesville, NC (ZIP Code 28786)

Assessing the overall health score for Waynesville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28786) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the number of physicians but also the accessibility, quality, and integration of healthcare services. This analysis delves into physician-to-patient ratios, prominent medical practices, the embrace of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources to paint a comprehensive picture.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratio data for a specific ZIP code can fluctuate, publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and state medical boards provide a baseline. Waynesville, being a relatively rural area, might face challenges in maintaining a favorable physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban centers. This underscores the importance of understanding the distribution of specialists and primary care physicians within the community.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of a healthy community. It represents the first point of contact for most healthcare needs, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialists. In Waynesville, the presence of well-established primary care practices is crucial. Assessing the accessibility of these practices involves considering factors like appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and geographical proximity for residents. A high concentration of primary care physicians, coupled with readily available appointments, would contribute significantly to a positive health score. Conversely, limitations in these areas would negatively impact the overall assessment.

Several medical practices stand out in Waynesville, each contributing to the overall health landscape. The reputation and quality of care provided by these practices are essential. Evaluating their performance involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and their commitment to quality improvement initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based practices, and actively participate in community health programs are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The integration of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the convenience of healthcare. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine in Waynesville involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine platforms, and the extent to which patients and providers are utilizing these technologies. A high level of telemedicine adoption would positively impact the health score, indicating a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns and promoting emotional well-being. Assessing the mental health landscape in Waynesville involves examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services for residents. The integration of mental health services within primary care settings, as well as the availability of crisis intervention services, would contribute significantly to a positive health score. A robust mental health infrastructure is a hallmark of a healthy community.

Analyzing the data, Waynesville’s health score is contingent on its ability to address potential limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, particularly in specialized areas. The strength of its primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. The practices need to be easily accessible. The area’s health score can be improved by focusing on the availability of primary care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Waynesville, NC (ZIP code 28786) is a complex metric. The health score is impacted by the accessibility of healthcare services, the quality of care provided, and the integration of various healthcare resources. By focusing on improving physician-to-patient ratios, supporting primary care practices, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health resources, Waynesville can enhance its overall health score and improve the well-being of its residents.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waynesville and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data, visit CartoChrome maps.