28789, Whittier, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28789, Whittier, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.13 percent of the residents in 28789 has some form of health insurance. 51.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.51 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 28789 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,642 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28789. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,295 health care providers accessible to residents in 28789, Whittier, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Whittier, NC (ZIP Code 28789)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Whittier, North Carolina, specifically within the 28789 ZIP code, requires a nuanced examination of various factors influencing residents' well-being. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A comprehensive understanding of these elements allows for a more informed evaluation of the community's health and the potential areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is readily accessible primary care. In Whittier, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of overall health scores. Factors impacting this include the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, the willingness of those physicians to accept new patients, and the presence of any geographical barriers that might hinder access. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, often leads to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting a greater availability of PCPs, generally contributes to improved health outcomes.

Specific data regarding the physician-to-patient ratio in 28789 is crucial for a precise assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be analyzed to calculate this ratio. If the ratio is unfavorable, it might indicate a need for initiatives to attract more medical professionals to the area. This could include incentives for physicians, expansion of medical training programs, or the establishment of rural health clinics.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing primary care practices significantly influence the overall health score. Identifying standout practices within Whittier involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the use of technology. Practices known for their commitment to patient-centered care, comprehensive services, and adoption of modern medical technologies often contribute positively to the community's health. These practices can serve as models for others, potentially raising the overall standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another important aspect of assessing the health landscape. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and online portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Whittier. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living far from medical facilities, or those seeking follow-up care. The extent of telemedicine adoption by primary care practices in 28789, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of the community. Assessing the mental health landscape in Whittier requires evaluating the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. This includes considering factors such as insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the presence of any specialized programs for specific populations (e.g., children, veterans).

The presence of mental health resources in 28789, or the lack thereof, can have a profound impact on the community's health. Adequate access to mental health care can help prevent and treat mental illnesses, reduce suicide rates, and improve overall quality of life. Conversely, a shortage of mental health providers can lead to untreated mental illnesses, increased substance abuse, and a decline in overall community well-being.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services with primary care is a key factor in improving access and outcomes. When primary care physicians are able to screen for mental health conditions and provide basic mental health services, or easily refer patients to mental health specialists, the overall health of the community is improved.

Evaluating the health score in Whittier also requires consideration of the social determinants of health. These are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, such as socioeconomic status, education level, access to healthy food, and housing conditions. These factors can significantly impact the health of the population, and addressing them is essential for improving overall health outcomes.

To provide a robust overall health score, it is essential to gather and analyze data from multiple sources. This includes data from healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organizations. A comprehensive assessment should consider all the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the social determinants of health.

The overall health score for Whittier, NC (28789) will be a composite score reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare system. This score can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide the development of targeted interventions. A high score would indicate a well-resourced healthcare system with good access to care, high-quality providers, and strong mental health support. A low score would suggest areas of concern, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to mental health services, or the need for improvements in the social determinants of health.

The overall health score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It is a tool for understanding the current state of healthcare and for planning for a healthier future.

Are you interested in a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Whittier, NC, and other areas? CartoChrome maps provide detailed, interactive visualizations of healthcare data, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic information. Explore the power of data visualization to gain a comprehensive understanding of your community's health.