27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.99 percent of the residents in 27587 has some form of health insurance. 19.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.47 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 27587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 21,940 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27587. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,892 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wake Forest (27587)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Wake Forest, North Carolina (ZIP code 27587), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the community's health ecosystem, ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score." Due to the complexity and dynamic nature of healthcare data, assigning a single, definitive numerical score is impractical. Instead, this analysis provides a qualitative assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

One of the critical metrics for evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, Wake Forest, as part of Wake County, generally benefits from a relatively favorable ratio compared to many rural areas. However, this doesn't necessarily translate to equal access for all residents. Population density within the ZIP code, socioeconomic factors, and transportation limitations can create pockets of underserved populations. Therefore, simply looking at the overall ratio doesn't paint the full picture. Further investigation into the distribution of physicians across different specialties and their acceptance of various insurance plans is crucial for a more granular understanding.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of a healthy community. The presence of readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) is vital for preventative care, early diagnosis, and the management of chronic conditions. Wake Forest benefits from a network of primary care practices, including both independent practices and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems. These practices offer a range of services, from routine checkups and vaccinations to chronic disease management. However, the demand for primary care services is consistently high, and appointment wait times can be a significant barrier to access. The availability of evening and weekend appointments, as well as the acceptance of new patients, are important factors to consider when evaluating primary care accessibility.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. These include patient satisfaction scores, the breadth of services offered, the integration of technology, and the practice's commitment to community outreach. Some practices in Wake Forest have garnered positive reputations for their patient-centered care, their focus on preventative medicine, and their use of electronic health records (EHRs) to improve care coordination. These practices often prioritize clear communication, patient education, and a holistic approach to health.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible way for patients to receive care, particularly for routine follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. The availability of telemedicine services within Wake Forest varies. Some practices have fully embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for a wide range of services. Others may offer limited telemedicine options or have yet to integrate this technology into their practice. The ease of use of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the insurance coverage for virtual visits are all factors that influence its effectiveness.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Wake Forest has access to a variety of mental health providers, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. However, the demand for mental health services often exceeds the supply, leading to long wait times and limited access. The affordability of mental health services, the availability of culturally competent providers, and the integration of mental health care into primary care settings are key considerations.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code plays a crucial role in accessibility. Residents in certain areas may have better access to healthcare services than others. Transportation options, such as public transportation and ride-sharing services, can also impact access to care. The proximity of hospitals and urgent care centers is another important factor, particularly for emergency situations.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Wake Forest (27587) is positive, reflecting a community with generally good access to healthcare resources. However, there are areas for improvement. Addressing the demand for primary care services, expanding the availability of telemedicine, and increasing access to mental health resources are critical steps towards enhancing the community's overall health. Further investigation into the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of healthcare facilities, and the socioeconomic factors affecting access to care is also needed.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wake Forest and visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed maps, allowing you to analyze physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a visual representation of healthcare accessibility within the community.