27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Belews Creek, NC (ZIP Code 27009)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Belews Creek, North Carolina, specifically within the 27009 ZIP code, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the community's health and well-being.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Belews Creek, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical indicator. Analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 27009 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas is the first step. This number, however, must be considered in relation to the population size. A small number of physicians serving a large population will inevitably lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a higher physician density generally correlates with better health outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. The ideal ratio varies depending on factors like demographics and the prevalence of chronic diseases. The national average provides a benchmark, allowing for a comparison of Belews Creek's ratio. A ratio significantly higher than the national average might signal a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially straining the existing healthcare infrastructure. This can impact the ability of residents to receive timely and comprehensive medical attention.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and reputation of local medical practices are vital. Identifying standout practices involves examining patient reviews, assessing the scope of services offered, and evaluating the presence of specialized programs. Practices with a strong reputation for patient care, a commitment to preventative medicine, and a focus on chronic disease management contribute significantly to the overall health score. These practices often serve as beacons of health within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine expands access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for residents of Belews Creek, potentially reducing the need for travel to larger medical centers in neighboring cities. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a key factor in the overall health assessment.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within the 27009 ZIP code is crucial. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with local schools and community organizations also contributes to the health score. Adequate mental health resources are essential for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of the community.

Specific practices within the 27009 ZIP code and its surrounding areas warrant individual scrutiny. The presence of any practice with a focus on family medicine, internal medicine, or geriatrics is a positive indicator. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, can also be considered. Each practice's commitment to patient education, preventative care, and chronic disease management further impacts the overall health score.

The geographic distribution of healthcare providers within the 27009 ZIP code is another important consideration. Are physicians clustered in one area, or are they spread out to serve the entire community? The proximity of healthcare facilities to residents, especially those with limited transportation options, is a significant factor in assessing access to care. A geographically dispersed network of providers generally leads to better health outcomes.

Furthermore, the presence of any community health initiatives or partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations can bolster the overall health score. These initiatives may include health screenings, wellness programs, or educational campaigns. A collaborative approach to healthcare often leads to improved health outcomes for the community.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) by local practices is another factor to consider. EHRs facilitate the secure sharing of patient information between healthcare providers, leading to better coordination of care. Practices that have embraced EHRs are generally better equipped to provide comprehensive and efficient medical services.

The financial accessibility of healthcare is also an important consideration. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, by local practices is critical. The availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured also impacts the overall health score. Healthcare should be accessible to all residents, regardless of their financial circumstances.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Belews Creek, NC (ZIP Code 27009) is a multifaceted assessment. It relies on a comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The final score will reflect the community's ability to provide and receive quality healthcare.

For a dynamic, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belews Creek, including the location of healthcare providers, population density, and other relevant health data, explore CartoChrome maps.