27527, Clayton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27527, Clayton, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.75 percent of the residents in 27527 has some form of health insurance. 24.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.12 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 27527 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27527. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,767 health care providers accessible to residents in 27527, Clayton, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Clayton, NC (ZIP Code 27527)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Clayton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27527) necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility of resources, and the overall health of the community. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, delving into key factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. This will paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Clayton.

The foundation of any health assessment begins with physician availability. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Clayton is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau, when cross-referenced, can provide an estimate of this ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this is a simplified view. Factors such as the specialization of physicians (e.g., primary care versus specialists), the age and health needs of the population, and the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code all play significant roles.

Clayton's health score is directly impacted by the presence of standout primary care practices. These practices often serve as the initial point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Identifying these practices requires an evaluation of several criteria. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer insights into patient satisfaction, wait times, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can indicate a commitment to quality standards and evidence-based care. Furthermore, the presence of comprehensive services, such as on-site labs, imaging, and behavioral health integration, can enhance a practice's score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing Clayton's health score, particularly in a geographically dispersed area. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging, can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians and specialists in Clayton needs to be assessed. This involves examining whether practices offer virtual appointments, the availability of online patient portals for communication and prescription refills, and the integration of remote monitoring technologies for managing chronic conditions. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a key determinant of the health score. This assessment requires an examination of the number of mental health providers in the area, 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, availability of evening and weekend appointments). Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can significantly improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

The overall health score is also influenced by the presence of community health initiatives and programs. This includes programs focused on preventative care, such as screenings for chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), immunization campaigns, and health education programs. The involvement of local hospitals, community centers, and public health departments in these initiatives can significantly enhance the health score. The existence of support groups for various health conditions, such as cancer or diabetes, can also contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

Beyond these specific factors, the overall health of the community is impacted by socioeconomic factors, such as income levels, education, and access to healthy food options. Areas with higher poverty rates and lower levels of education often experience poorer health outcomes. The availability of affordable housing, access to transportation, and the presence of safe and walkable neighborhoods also play a role. While these factors are not directly related to healthcare delivery, they significantly impact the overall health of the population and, therefore, the overall health score.

The final assessment of Clayton's overall health score requires synthesizing all the factors mentioned above. This involves assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance and then calculating an overall score. The score can then be compared to benchmarks, such as the average health scores for other similar communities or the state average, to provide a comparative assessment.

The ongoing monitoring and evaluation of Clayton's health landscape are crucial. Regular updates on physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the performance of primary care practices are essential for maintaining a high overall health score. This data can inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and improve the quality of care for all residents.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing healthcare providers and resources in Clayton (ZIP Code 27527), consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the spatial distribution of physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and identify potential areas for improvement.