27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.17 percent of the residents in 27577 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 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 27577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)

Smithfield, North Carolina, nestled within the 27577 ZIP code, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access and quality. An 'Overall Health Score' analysis, evaluating factors such as physician availability, resource allocation, and adoption of modern healthcare practices, reveals a landscape with both strengths and areas ripe for improvement. This analysis will delve into these key aspects, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio for Smithfield requires careful data analysis, considering the number of active, licensed physicians practicing within the 27577 ZIP code, specifically focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs). The population of Smithfield, and its surrounding areas, must then be factored in. Based on readily available public data, it's likely that the physician-to-patient ratio in Smithfield, particularly for PCPs, is a concern. This suggests that residents may face challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to potential delays in preventative care and management of chronic conditions. This shortage can also lead to increased wait times and potential for burnout among existing physicians.

The availability of primary care is the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system. Smithfield’s primary care availability is likely influenced by several factors, including the presence of large healthcare systems, independent practices, and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs). The distribution of these providers throughout the community is crucial. Are they concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Do they accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare? These are important questions to assess the true availability of primary care services.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying 'standout practices' requires a multifaceted evaluation. This includes assessing patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the integration of technology, and the practice's commitment to preventative care. Practices that excel in these areas often contribute significantly to the overall health of the community. For example, practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and online patient portals can enhance accessibility and convenience. Practices that have achieved recognition for quality of care, such as those receiving awards or accreditations, can also be considered standouts. The impact of these standout practices is often felt through improved health outcomes, reduced hospital readmission rates, and increased patient satisfaction.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine in Smithfield warrants careful examination. Are local practices utilizing telehealth platforms for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and chronic disease management? The availability of reliable internet connectivity is also a key factor influencing telemedicine adoption. Practices that embrace telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, provide convenient access to care, and potentially reduce healthcare costs. The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the healthcare delivery system in Smithfield is an important indicator of the community's ability to adapt to evolving healthcare trends.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Mental health services are an essential component of overall health and well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Smithfield requires a detailed examination of the types of services offered, the number of mental health professionals available, and the accessibility of these services. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there sufficient mental health professionals to meet the needs of the community? Are there any specialized mental health programs, such as those for children, adolescents, or individuals with substance use disorders? The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs also contributes to a robust mental health infrastructure. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are critical factors in determining the overall health of the community.

**Specific Considerations within Smithfield:**

The presence of Johnston Health, a major healthcare provider in the region, is a significant factor in Smithfield's healthcare landscape. Analyzing Johnston Health's services, its coverage area, and its partnerships with other healthcare providers is crucial. The hospital's ability to provide a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and preventative care, is a key factor. The role of FQHCs, if present, in providing care to underserved populations should also be assessed. These centers often play a vital role in improving access to care for individuals with limited financial resources or those living in rural areas.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

Smithfield, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges in healthcare access, including physician shortages, limited transportation options, and socioeconomic disparities. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. This includes recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding telehealth services, and improving access to transportation. Opportunities for improvement exist in areas such as promoting preventative care, expanding mental health services, and fostering collaboration among healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action with CartoChrome Maps**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577) reveals a healthcare landscape with strengths and areas for improvement. While specific data points require further investigation, the analysis highlights the importance of addressing physician-to-patient ratios, expanding primary care availability, embracing telemedicine, and ensuring adequate mental health resources.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield and its surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis. **CartoChrome maps** offer a visual and interactive way to analyze healthcare data, identify areas of need, and understand the distribution of resources. By using CartoChrome maps, you can visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data points to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in Smithfield and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.