27705, Durham, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27705, Durham, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 27705 has some form of health insurance. 27.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.18 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 27705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,074 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27705. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,637 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45,592 health care providers accessible to residents in 27705, Durham, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Durham (27705) Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the overall health score for primary care within the 27705 ZIP code in Durham, North Carolina, necessitates a multifaceted approach. We must evaluate not just the raw number of physicians, but also the accessibility, quality, and breadth of services offered. This analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment will provide a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests greater accessibility to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. Geographic distribution within the 27705 ZIP code, the acceptance of new patients by each practice, and the diversity of insurance plans accepted by providers all significantly impact the practical availability of primary care. Furthermore, the age and health needs of the population within the ZIP code are critical. A community with a higher proportion of elderly residents or individuals with chronic conditions may require a higher physician-to-patient ratio to ensure adequate care.

Standout practices, those that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, play a crucial role in the overall health score. These practices often exhibit characteristics such as a patient-centered approach, advanced technology integration, and a commitment to preventative care. They may also be recognized for their high patient satisfaction scores, low rates of hospital readmission, and effective management of chronic diseases. Identifying and highlighting these practices can serve as a benchmark for others and contribute to raising the overall quality of care within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging, enhances accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in underserved areas. The extent to which practices in the 27705 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, significantly impacts the overall health score. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and modern healthcare delivery.

The availability of mental health resources is an increasingly important aspect of overall health. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to mental health specialists, contributes significantly to the overall health score. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, as well as the integration of mental health screenings and treatment plans into routine primary care.

Specific practices in the 27705 ZIP code warrant closer examination. Practices affiliated with major healthcare systems, such as Duke Health or UNC Health, may have access to a broader range of resources and specialists. Independent practices, on the other hand, may offer a more personalized approach to care. The size and structure of each practice, including the number of physicians, nurse practitioners, and support staff, also influence its capacity to serve the community.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians in the 27705 ZIP code is assessed through various metrics. These include patient satisfaction surveys, performance on quality measures such as diabetes control and blood pressure management, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Practices that consistently achieve high scores on these metrics contribute to a higher overall health score for the community.

Accessibility is a critical factor. The location of primary care practices within the 27705 ZIP code, the availability of public transportation, and the hours of operation all impact accessibility. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and convenient locations contribute to a higher overall health score. The ability of patients to easily schedule appointments, access their medical records, and communicate with their providers also influences accessibility.

The diversity of the patient population served by primary care practices in the 27705 ZIP code is another important consideration. Practices that serve a diverse patient population, including individuals from different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and equitable healthcare access. The ability of practices to provide culturally competent care and address the unique health needs of diverse populations contributes to a higher overall health score.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a significant factor. EHRs enable physicians to efficiently manage patient data, share information with other providers, and improve the coordination of care. Practices that have successfully implemented EHRs often demonstrate improved patient outcomes and a more streamlined healthcare experience. The interoperability of EHR systems, allowing for seamless data exchange between different providers and healthcare organizations, is also crucial.

The presence of specialized services within primary care practices, such as women's health services, geriatric care, and pediatric care, enhances the overall health score. Practices that offer a comprehensive range of services can meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community. The availability of these specialized services reduces the need for patients to seek care from multiple providers, improving coordination and continuity of care.

The overall health score for primary care in the 27705 ZIP code is not static; it is subject to change over time. Factors such as population growth, changes in healthcare policies, and advancements in medical technology can all impact the availability, quality, and accessibility of care. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, is also important. Practices that utilize patient portals, online appointment scheduling, and mobile health applications enhance patient engagement and improve the overall healthcare experience. These technologies empower patients to take a more active role in their health management.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for primary care in the 27705 ZIP code requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality and accessibility of care. By considering these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the primary care landscape in the 27705 ZIP code, including the locations of practices, physician density, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their detailed visualizations can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access.