28906, Murphy, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28906, Murphy, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.31 percent of the residents in 28906 has some form of health insurance. 51.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.70 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 28906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,848 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,397 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 715 health care providers accessible to residents in 28906, Murphy, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Murphy, NC (ZIP Code 28906)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Murphy, North Carolina (ZIP code 28906) requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment goes beyond simply counting doctors; it delves into the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of innovative healthcare practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the community's health and wellness environment.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Murphy, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Assessing this involves considering the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions, and overall poorer health outcomes. This initial evaluation of primary care availability forms the bedrock of our overall health score.

Next, we must examine the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a crucial indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can indicate a strain on the existing healthcare resources. The national average serves as a benchmark, and comparing Murphy's ratio to this average allows us to gauge the relative availability of physicians in the community. A lower-than-average ratio might suggest a need for strategies to attract and retain healthcare professionals.

Beyond the raw numbers, we need to identify standout practices within the community. These practices often demonstrate innovative approaches to patient care, such as extended hours, same-day appointments, or a focus on preventative medicine. Identifying these practices, their operational models, and their impact on patient outcomes provides valuable insights. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute to a higher overall health score for the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area to analyze. The integration of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Murphy. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local providers, the types of services offered, and the patient satisfaction with these services is essential. A higher level of telemedicine adoption contributes positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of a healthy community. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. The prevalence of mental health conditions, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into primary care settings are all critical factors. A community with robust mental health resources is better equipped to address the diverse healthcare needs of its residents, thereby contributing to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score for Murphy, NC (ZIP code 28906) is a composite of these factors. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. Each factor is weighted based on its relative importance in contributing to overall community health.

To arrive at a final score, we would gather data from various sources. This includes public health records, insurance provider data, physician directories, and patient surveys. Analyzing this data allows us to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Murphy. The final score, presented as a numerical value or a descriptive rating, provides a snapshot of the community's health and wellness environment.

Furthermore, understanding the specific strengths and weaknesses within the healthcare system in Murphy allows for targeted interventions. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, efforts can be made to recruit more healthcare professionals. If telemedicine adoption is low, resources can be allocated to support providers in integrating telehealth services. Similarly, if mental health resources are lacking, community partnerships can be developed to expand access to mental health services.

The overall health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that changes over time. Regular assessments are essential to track progress, identify emerging challenges, and adapt strategies to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are critical to ensure that the healthcare system in Murphy is responsive, effective, and equitable.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Murphy, NC (ZIP code 28906) is a complex process that requires a holistic approach. By considering the factors discussed above, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the community's health and wellness environment. This understanding empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions, implement effective interventions, and ultimately improve the health outcomes for all residents.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Murphy, NC, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for detailed visualization and analysis of healthcare data, providing valuable insights that can inform decision-making and drive positive change within the community.