27295, Lexington, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27295, Lexington, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.41 percent of the residents in 27295 has some form of health insurance. 36.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.92 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 27295 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27295. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,030 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 27295, Lexington, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Lexington, NC (ZIP Code 27295)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Lexington, North Carolina, specifically within the 27295 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and the prevalence of specific health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Lexington, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of doctors to serve the population, is essential for timely access to care. Conversely, a low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased patient load per physician, and potentially compromised quality of care. Analyzing this ratio necessitates data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau to accurately determine the number of practicing primary care physicians relative to the population size within the 27295 ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians matters. Are they concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This geographic disparity can create healthcare access challenges for residents in more remote or less affluent neighborhoods. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available contribute to the overall health score. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians, all within the same geographical area, offers a more holistic approach to healthcare, catering to a diverse patient population.

Identifying standout practices is vital to the assessment. These practices often demonstrate exceptional patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to community health. This evaluation considers factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the integration of preventative care programs. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and chronic disease management would receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals significantly enhances access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their workflows contribute positively to the overall health score. The availability of secure and user-friendly telemedicine options is a significant advantage in today's healthcare environment.

Mental health resources are an increasingly critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals within the 27295 ZIP code is a significant indicator of community well-being. This analysis considers the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, a model that promotes holistic care, also merits positive consideration.

Moreover, the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and community mental health programs contributes to a more comprehensive mental health ecosystem. The existence of resources specifically tailored to address the needs of vulnerable populations, such as veterans, children, and individuals with substance use disorders, is particularly valuable.

The availability of specialized healthcare services also influences the overall health score. While primary care forms the bedrock of the system, access to specialists is essential for managing complex medical conditions. The presence of cardiologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, and other specialists within a reasonable distance is crucial. The ability to coordinate care between primary care physicians and specialists is another important consideration.

Furthermore, the overall health score is influenced by factors such as the availability of hospitals, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies. The proximity of these facilities, their hours of operation, and their ability to provide timely and efficient care all contribute to the health landscape. The presence of emergency medical services and their response times are also critical factors, particularly in rural areas.

The analysis also considers the social determinants of health, which are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These include socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, housing stability, and the level of education. Addressing these social determinants is essential for improving overall health outcomes in any community.

Data sources are crucial for this analysis. Public health agencies, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, provide valuable data on health indicators, disease prevalence, and healthcare utilization. Local hospitals, clinics, and physician practices often provide information on services offered, patient demographics, and quality metrics. Professional organizations, such as the American Medical Association, can provide data on physician demographics and practice patterns.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It is subject to change based on evolving healthcare trends, policy changes, and community needs. Regular reassessment is necessary to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that healthcare resources are effectively allocated. The goal is to provide a snapshot of the health landscape in Lexington, NC, and to inform efforts to enhance the well-being of its residents.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Lexington, NC, and to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographic context of healthcare access and identifying areas that may benefit from targeted interventions.