27709, Durham, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27709, Durham, North Carolina is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 27709 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 27709 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27709. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,504 health care providers accessible to residents in 27709, Durham, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27709 & Primary Care Availability in Durham

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape within ZIP code 27709 (Durham, North Carolina) and the broader context of primary care availability in the city. We aim to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment is designed to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric for assessing access to care. Within 27709, and indeed across Durham, the ratio fluctuates. While Durham County generally benefits from a relatively strong healthcare infrastructure, pockets of the city, including certain areas within 27709, may experience higher patient-to-physician ratios, particularly in primary care. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or treatment. The presence of major healthcare systems, such as Duke Health, helps to mitigate some of these challenges, but the demand for primary care services continues to grow with the population.

Standout medical practices play a crucial role in shaping the quality of care. In 27709, and throughout Durham, several practices have earned reputations for excellence. These practices often distinguish themselves through a combination of factors, including highly skilled physicians, a commitment to patient-centered care, and the utilization of advanced medical technologies. Some practices may specialize in specific areas, such as women's health, cardiology, or pediatrics, further enhancing their ability to provide specialized care. These practices often serve as benchmarks for other healthcare providers in the area, driving up the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, especially in recent years. The adoption of telemedicine within 27709 and Durham has been steadily increasing. Many primary care practices now offer virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their doctors remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in underserved areas. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as the patient's access to technology and the physician's comfort level with virtual consultations.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within 27709 and Durham is a critical factor in the overall health score. While Durham County has made strides in expanding mental health services, challenges remain. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, can be limited, particularly for individuals with certain insurance plans or those seeking specialized care. The presence of community mental health centers, hospital-based psychiatric units, and private practices contributes to the overall availability of services. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.

Assessing the overall health score requires a holistic approach. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline measure of access. The presence of standout practices indicates the availability of high-quality care. The adoption of telemedicine demonstrates a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. The availability of mental health resources reflects the community's commitment to comprehensive care. All these factors must be considered in conjunction with socioeconomic factors, such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and health literacy.

The overall health score for 27709 and Durham is thus complex. While Durham benefits from a strong healthcare infrastructure, challenges persist. The physician-to-patient ratio, while generally favorable, may be strained in some areas. The presence of standout practices enhances the quality of care, but access to these practices may vary. Telemedicine adoption is increasing, improving access, but its effectiveness depends on various factors. Mental health resources are available, but access can be limited. Therefore, the overall health score reflects a mixed picture of strengths and weaknesses.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27709 and Durham, including the specific locations of medical practices, the availability of specialized services, and the distribution of mental health resources, consider exploring the potential of interactive mapping tools. These tools can visualize complex healthcare data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the healthcare ecosystem. They can provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

For a comprehensive and visually engaging exploration of the healthcare landscape in Durham, including 27709, we encourage you to explore the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into easily understandable visualizations, providing insights that can inform decisions and improve healthcare outcomes.