27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.96 percent of the residents in 27534 has some form of health insurance. 36.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.39 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 27534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,285 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,216 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,153 health care providers accessible to residents in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Goldsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27534)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the Goldsboro, North Carolina area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 27534. It examines the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource integration. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas of strength and potential improvement.

Assessing the health of a community requires more than just counting doctors. It necessitates an understanding of access, quality, and the integration of various healthcare services. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In Goldsboro (27534), this ratio is a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Accurate, up-to-date data on this ratio is vital for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau provides a starting point, but this data alone is insufficient.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices in Goldsboro are critical. Are practices accepting new patients? What are the average wait times for appointments? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability to accommodate diverse schedules? The presence of multi-specialty practices, where primary care physicians collaborate with specialists, can streamline care and improve patient outcomes. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray or lab work, also contributes to convenience and efficiency.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video or phone, can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also improve access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The degree to which primary care practices in Goldsboro have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services they offer remotely, should be thoroughly examined. This includes assessing the availability of virtual visits, remote patient monitoring, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral component of overall health. The integration of mental health services within primary care settings is a best practice. This integration can involve co-located mental health professionals, collaborative care models, or referral networks to mental health specialists. The availability of these resources, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a critical factor in the community's health score. The prevalence of mental health issues in the community and the accessibility of services to address those needs are also important considerations.

Identifying standout practices within the Goldsboro area is essential. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in patient care, efficiency, and innovation. Practices that prioritize patient communication, utilize electronic health records effectively, and actively engage in population health management are likely to achieve higher scores. Furthermore, practices that are actively involved in community outreach and health education initiatives demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the community.

The economic and social determinants of health also play a significant role in the overall health score. Factors like income levels, access to healthy food, safe housing, and educational attainment influence health outcomes. These factors, while not directly related to the availability of physicians, significantly impact the health of the population. Understanding these contextual factors is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

Data collection and analysis should involve a multi-faceted approach. Surveys of local physicians, patient feedback, and public health data are all essential components. Analyzing insurance coverage rates, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the utilization of healthcare services provides a more complete picture of the community's health status.

The overall health score is not a static number. It should be regularly updated and refined as the healthcare landscape evolves. This includes monitoring changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the community. Regular assessments allow for the identification of trends, the evaluation of interventions, and the ongoing improvement of healthcare services.

The quality of primary care in Goldsboro is influenced by a number of factors. Patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcome data, and peer reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives are likely to achieve higher scores.

In conclusion, assessing the "Overall Health Score" for primary care in Goldsboro (27534) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader social determinants of health. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of healthcare in the area and identifying areas for improvement.