27051, Walkertown, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27051, Walkertown, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.99 percent of the residents in 27051 has some form of health insurance. 41.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.08 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 27051 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,814 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27051. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 27051, Walkertown, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Walkertown, NC (ZIP Code 27051)

Walkertown, North Carolina, a community nestled within ZIP code 27051, presents a complex picture when assessing its overall health score. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources to provide a comprehensive evaluation. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, offering insights into areas that require improvement and highlighting potential opportunities for residents.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Walkertown, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While a precise count of practicing physicians within the immediate ZIP code requires constant updates, data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and healthcare directories provides a general understanding. The density of physicians, when compared to the population of Walkertown, reveals the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and a more robust healthcare infrastructure.

Determining the physician-to-patient ratio involves analyzing the number of active primary care physicians (including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice) serving the 27051 ZIP code. This number is then compared to the population of Walkertown, as estimated by the U.S. Census Bureau. The resulting ratio offers a numerical representation of access. For example, a ratio of 1:1000 would mean one physician for every 1,000 residents. A ratio of 1:500 would be considered a more favorable indicator of access. The ideal ratio varies depending on factors like the age and health of the population, and the availability of specialists.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of local practices play a significant role. Standout practices are those that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, and offer a range of services. These practices often employ advanced technologies, have a well-trained staff, and prioritize patient education. Identifying these practices requires a review of online patient reviews, consideration of accreditations, and analysis of the services offered. Practices with a focus on preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education are often considered to be high-quality.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Walkertown is a critical factor in assessing overall health. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists. It can also increase access to mental health services, where the demand often outstrips local resources. The extent to which local primary care practices and specialists offer telemedicine services is a key indicator of access.

Mental health resources are another crucial element of a community's health. Walkertown's access to mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a significant factor. The availability of these resources, along with the ease of access, impacts the overall health score. The presence of local mental health clinics, partnerships with regional hospitals, and the utilization of telehealth for mental health services are all important considerations. The availability of resources for substance abuse treatment, a common co-occurring condition with mental health disorders, is also a factor.

Evaluating the mental health landscape involves identifying the number of mental health professionals serving the community, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of those services. This includes considering the availability of insurance coverage, the acceptance of new patients, and the wait times for appointments. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and crisis intervention services also contribute to the overall mental health score.

Furthermore, it is important to assess the level of integration between primary care and mental health services. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals work alongside primary care physicians, have been shown to improve patient outcomes. The extent to which this integration exists in Walkertown is a key factor in assessing the overall health score.

The overall health score for Walkertown (27051) is a complex calculation. It depends on the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates better access to care, a more robust healthcare infrastructure, and a healthier community. A lower score indicates areas that require improvement, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or increasing the availability of mental health resources.

In conclusion, the health of a community is an evolving measure. Continuous monitoring and analysis are essential to identify areas of strength and weakness. The healthcare landscape in Walkertown, like any community, requires ongoing assessment and improvement. Understanding the available resources and the challenges faced by residents is the first step toward building a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Walkertown and surrounding areas, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.