27581, Stem, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27581, Stem, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 27581 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.24 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 27581 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 868 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27581. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,990 health care providers accessible to residents in 27581, Stem, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Stem, NC (ZIP Code 27581)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the residents of Stem, North Carolina (ZIP code 27581), focusing on primary care availability and the broader healthcare landscape. We examine various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resource access, to paint a comprehensive picture. This score is not a definitive ranking, but a nuanced evaluation reflecting the current state of healthcare accessibility and quality within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Stem, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. A favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of primary care physicians to serve the population, is crucial for timely access to preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall well-being. Conversely, a low ratio suggests potential challenges, including longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing providers. The current ratio, once determined, will serve as a baseline for future analysis.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are vital. Evaluating the practices within ZIP code 27581 involves considering factors like patient reviews, insurance acceptance, and the range of services offered. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technology adoption, or specialized services. Identifying these standout practices is crucial for residents seeking the best possible healthcare experience. This involves researching online reviews, evaluating the practice’s website for information on services and staff, and assessing their commitment to patient communication and education.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Stem. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, provides insight into the healthcare system's adaptability and responsiveness. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience and potentially reduce the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The degree to which telemedicine is utilized, and the technologies employed, contributes to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of a comprehensive healthcare system. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Stem involves examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counseling services. The availability of these resources, coupled with their accessibility and affordability, is a significant factor in the overall health score. A community with limited mental health resources may face challenges in addressing mental health issues, leading to potential negative impacts on the population's overall well-being. Investigating the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships with local organizations is also crucial.

The overall health score for Stem, NC (ZIP code 27581) is a composite measure of these various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. The score, expressed on a scale, reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the area. It is important to note that this score is dynamic and can change over time due to factors like population growth, changes in healthcare provider availability, and advancements in technology.

The evaluation also considers the availability of specialists. While the primary focus is on primary care, the presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and endocrinologists, within a reasonable distance, impacts the overall health score. The ability to access specialized care without excessive travel is a crucial factor in the healthcare experience. The proximity to larger medical centers and hospitals is also a significant consideration.

Furthermore, the health score incorporates an understanding of social determinants of health. These are factors that influence health outcomes, such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental conditions. Analyzing these determinants provides a more holistic view of the community's health challenges and opportunities. This involves examining data on poverty rates, food deserts, and environmental hazards.

The analysis also considers the level of health insurance coverage. The percentage of the population with health insurance is a critical indicator of access to care. A high rate of uninsured individuals can create barriers to accessing preventative care and treatment, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. Examining the availability of affordable health insurance options and participation in public health programs is therefore essential.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Stem, NC (ZIP code 27581) reflects a multifaceted assessment of the healthcare landscape. The score considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist availability, social determinants of health, and health insurance coverage. This score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic evaluation that can evolve over time. It serves as a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare challenges and opportunities within the community.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Stem, NC (ZIP code 27581), allowing you to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.