28805, Asheville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.36 percent of the residents in 28805 has some form of health insurance. 38.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.11 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 28805 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,519 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28805. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,719 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,777 health care providers accessible to residents in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28805)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within the 28805 ZIP code in Asheville, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment moves beyond simple metrics, delving into the intricacies of physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the crucial availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the area's health ecosystem, culminating in an actionable perspective for residents and potential newcomers.

One of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute data fluctuates, the general trend in Asheville, and specifically within 28805, suggests a ratio that, while not critically deficient, warrants attention. Compared to some urban centers, the area may face challenges in terms of overall primary care physician (PCP) availability. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and impacting the management of chronic conditions. The presence of a significant elderly population in the area can also strain existing resources, as older adults typically require more frequent medical attention.

However, the picture is not entirely bleak. Asheville benefits from a reputation as a desirable place to live, which helps attract and retain qualified medical professionals. The presence of Mission Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, plays a significant role in the overall health infrastructure. The hospital's network of affiliated practices and specialists contributes to a broader range of available services, potentially mitigating some of the challenges associated with physician scarcity.

Identifying standout primary care practices is crucial to understanding the quality of care within the 28805 ZIP code. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence often exhibit several key characteristics. These include a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by ample appointment times, clear communication, and a focus on preventative medicine. Another key element is a robust and well-integrated electronic health record (EHR) system, which allows for seamless information sharing between providers and improved care coordination. Additionally, practices that prioritize patient education and offer resources for managing chronic conditions tend to demonstrate superior outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine is another vital indicator of a modern and accessible healthcare system. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The 28805 ZIP code, while not strictly rural, can benefit from telemedicine’s ability to connect patients with specialists and provide convenient follow-up care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of their patients.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health and well-being. The 28805 ZIP code's health score is significantly impacted by the accessibility and quality of mental healthcare services. This includes the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. The presence of community mental health centers, outpatient clinics, and inpatient psychiatric facilities is a positive indicator. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings is increasingly recognized as best practice, facilitating early detection and intervention. The availability of resources for substance abuse treatment and recovery is also a critical factor.

Evaluating the overall health score within 28805 requires acknowledging the interplay of these factors. While the physician-to-patient ratio might present a challenge, the presence of a major hospital, the potential for high-quality primary care practices, and the adoption of telemedicine can offset some of the negative impacts. The strength of the mental health infrastructure is a crucial determinant of the overall health score. A robust system of mental health services, integrated with primary care, significantly enhances the overall health of the community.

To further refine this analysis and empower individuals with the information they need, consider exploring the dynamic visualizations offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize healthcare data in a geographically relevant context. They can reveal patterns and disparities in healthcare access, resource distribution, and health outcomes. By visualizing data such as physician density, practice locations, and the availability of mental health services, CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the health landscape within 28805 and beyond.