27572, Rougemont, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27572, Rougemont, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.10 percent of the residents in 27572 has some form of health insurance. 34.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.82 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 27572 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,259 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27572. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,305 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,092 health care providers accessible to residents in 27572, Rougemont, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rougemont, NC (ZIP Code 27572)

Rougemont, North Carolina, a small community nestled in Durham County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when evaluating its overall health landscape. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in an overall health score assessment. This score, while subjective, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the community's healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on access to primary care. In Rougemont (ZIP Code 27572), the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. Due to its rural nature, the area may face limitations compared to more urban centers. The distance residents must travel to access a primary care provider is a significant consideration. This travel time directly impacts the ability to receive timely care, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. This metric provides insight into the potential workload of existing physicians and the accessibility of care. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) could indicate longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, but it's important to consider other factors, such as the specialization of available physicians and the demographics of the patient population. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Rougemont requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is important. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. Factors to consider include the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient record-keeping and communication, and patient reviews and testimonials. Practices that actively engage with their patients through educational programs or community outreach initiatives also deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly critical, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely via video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption within Rougemont’s primary care practices provides insight into the community’s ability to leverage technology to improve access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reduce travel time, improve appointment flexibility, and enhance patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Evaluating the availability of mental health providers (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within or near Rougemont is vital. This includes assessing the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. The presence of support groups and community-based mental health programs also contributes to the overall health score.

To arrive at an overall health score, we must integrate all these factors. The score should reflect the ease of access to primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a community with excellent access to care, a robust healthcare infrastructure, and a commitment to patient well-being. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to mental health services, or a lack of telemedicine adoption.

Based on the available information, and assuming the limitations of a rural setting, Rougemont likely faces some challenges. The physician-to-patient ratio may be higher than in more urban areas. Travel times to access primary care could be significant. However, the presence of dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption could mitigate some of these challenges. The availability of mental health resources is a key area to assess.

The overall health score for Rougemont (ZIP Code 27572) is, therefore, tentatively estimated to be moderate. This score is based on the assumption that the community faces some accessibility challenges common to rural areas, but that there are also strengths in the form of dedicated healthcare providers. A more precise score would require a comprehensive data analysis, including information from the North Carolina Medical Board, local healthcare providers, and community health organizations.

To enhance this assessment, further investigation is needed. This includes gathering data on physician demographics, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health service availability. Patient satisfaction surveys and community health needs assessments could provide valuable insights into the lived experiences of residents and their perceptions of the healthcare system.

The future of healthcare in Rougemont, and other rural communities, hinges on several factors. These include attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals, expanding access to telemedicine, improving the integration of mental health services, and fostering community partnerships to address health disparities. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as telehealth equipment and broadband internet access, are also essential.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It is a dynamic indicator that can change over time based on improvements in healthcare access, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of community health initiatives. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the healthcare system meets the evolving needs of the Rougemont community.

For a more detailed, visually driven understanding of healthcare resources and their geographic distribution within Rougemont and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the community's health landscape.