27617, Raleigh, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27617, Raleigh, North Carolina is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 27617 has some form of health insurance. 16.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.09 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 27617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,871 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 44 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27617. An estimate of 66 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,753 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 26,736 health care providers accessible to residents in 27617, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27617 and Primary Care Availability in Raleigh

Analyzing the health landscape within ZIP code 27617 and the broader context of primary care availability in Raleigh requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the accessibility and quality of healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric for assessing healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. While precise figures fluctuate, it's essential to understand the local physician density. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, the U.S. Census Bureau, and healthcare databases should be consulted to determine the current ratio within 27617 and compare it to the average for Raleigh and the state. A higher-than-average ratio could signal a need for increased physician recruitment or the expansion of existing practices.

Within 27617, identifying standout practices is vital. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality and innovation. Factors to consider include patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., from the Joint Commission), the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized clinics), and the use of technology. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employ skilled medical professionals, and utilize efficient administrative processes are likely to score higher in this evaluation. Researching practices like WakeMed Physician Practices, Duke Primary Care locations, and any independent practices within the zip code is necessary to ascertain their strengths and weaknesses.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of telehealth services within 27617 is a key factor in the overall health score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals enhance accessibility and convenience. Evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video visits, phone consultations, asynchronous messaging), the ease of use of the technology, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice's overall care model is crucial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine effectively are likely to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of the health score. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for mental health concerns. Therefore, the presence of mental health services within primary care practices or readily accessible referrals to mental health specialists is essential. Assessing the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics and support groups, is important. Practices that prioritize mental health integration, offer on-site counseling, or have strong referral networks will score higher in this area.

Primary care availability in Raleigh, as a whole, also impacts the score. While the focus is on 27617, the broader context is important. Examining the overall number of primary care physicians in Raleigh, the distribution of these physicians across different areas, and the availability of appointments is necessary. Factors like insurance acceptance, wait times for appointments, and the availability of after-hours care contribute to the overall picture. The presence of community health centers and free clinics can improve access for underserved populations.

Several factors can influence the overall health score. The demographics of the population within 27617, including age, socioeconomic status, and health disparities, play a significant role. Areas with a higher proportion of elderly residents or individuals with chronic illnesses may require a greater concentration of healthcare resources. The presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics within or near the zip code is also important. Access to transportation, the availability of public health programs, and the overall health literacy of the community are also factors.

The assessment process should involve a thorough review of available data, including public health statistics, healthcare provider directories, and patient feedback. Surveys and interviews with healthcare providers and patients could provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the challenges faced by the community. The use of data visualization tools, such as geographic information systems (GIS), can help to map healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access to care.

The final "Overall Health Score" would be a composite measure, taking into account all the above factors. It would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services within 27617. A higher score would indicate a healthier community with greater access to care, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. The score could be presented on a scale (e.g., 1-100) or categorized (e.g., excellent, good, fair, poor).

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in 27617 and Raleigh. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in healthcare delivery, population demographics, and the availability of resources. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, stakeholders can work together to improve the health and well-being of the community.