28806, Asheville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28806, Asheville, North Carolina is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.80 percent of the residents in 28806 has some form of health insurance. 31.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.42 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 28806 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,211 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28806. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,942 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,951 health care providers accessible to residents in 28806, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Asheville (28806) Primary Care

Analyzing the overall health landscape for primary care within Asheville's 28806 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the crucial aspect of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, factoring in these key elements to paint a clear picture of the healthcare environment.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain access and lead to longer wait times for appointments. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and difficult to ascertain definitively due to fluctuating patient panels and physician availability, general estimates suggest a potential challenge in 28806. Asheville, as a whole, experiences periods of high demand for primary care, particularly during peak seasons and with an aging population. This demand, coupled with potential physician shortages or retirements, can create accessibility hurdles. Data from state medical boards, combined with patient population estimates, can provide a valuable starting point for understanding the existing ratio.

The quality of primary care practices is another crucial factor. This involves evaluating several elements, including the breadth of services offered, the adoption of modern medical technologies, and patient satisfaction. Practices that provide comprehensive services, such as preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized screenings, contribute to a higher overall health score. Patient reviews and ratings, though subjective, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, communication effectiveness, and the overall quality of care. Accreditation status, such as that granted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), also signifies a commitment to quality standards and patient-centered care.

Several practices in 28806 stand out. These are often characterized by a combination of factors: a strong physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to comprehensive care, and a positive patient experience. Some may have invested in advanced technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing and improved patient management. Others may have specialized programs for managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Identifying these standout practices requires thorough research, including a review of patient testimonials, practice websites, and publicly available performance data.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals enhances accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can also improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery by reducing the need for in-person visits for certain types of care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering a range of virtual services, contribute positively to the overall health score. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the functionality of patient portals.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, is critical for addressing the complex needs of patients. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or partnerships with external mental health professionals, contribute significantly to a higher health score. This includes the ability to screen for mental health conditions, provide brief interventions, and make appropriate referrals. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within the practice, the availability of mental health screenings, and the practice's referral network.

The 28806 ZIP code’s overall health score, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice performance, and telemedicine adoption are essential for a precise score, the general assessment suggests a need for continued improvement. Addressing potential physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and enhancing the integration of mental health services are key areas for improvement. The quality of care provided by individual practices, as determined by patient reviews and accreditation status, is also a significant factor.

In conclusion, the overall health score for primary care in 28806 is a dynamic measure. It's influenced by the availability of physicians, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health resources. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community has access to high-quality, comprehensive primary care services.