27713, Durham, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27713, Durham, North Carolina is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 27713 has some form of health insurance. 22.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.06 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 27713 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27713. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,043 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47,416 health care providers accessible to residents in 27713, Durham, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27713)

Durham, North Carolina, a city known for its academic institutions and burgeoning tech sector, presents a complex picture when assessing its overall health landscape, particularly within the 27713 ZIP code. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on key indicators like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. While precise, real-time data is dynamic and subject to change, publicly available resources, including the US Department of Health & Human Services, offer estimates. In the context of Durham and 27713, the ratio likely fluctuates, influenced by factors like the presence of Duke University Health System and other large healthcare providers. These institutions tend to attract a higher concentration of physicians. However, the distribution of these physicians across the entire ZIP code, and their willingness to accept new patients, is crucial. Areas with a higher concentration of elderly residents or families with young children might experience a greater demand for primary care, potentially straining the existing physician pool.

Standout practices within the 27713 ZIP code can significantly influence the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, and a commitment to community health. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach, including reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, analyzing online reviews, and examining the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices affiliated with Duke Health, for example, often benefit from access to cutting-edge research and advanced medical technologies. Independent practices, on the other hand, might excel in providing personalized care and building strong relationships with their patients. The presence of these high-performing practices elevates the overall health score by providing residents with access to quality care options.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued presence in the healthcare landscape offers significant advantages, particularly in terms of accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, improve access to care for individuals with mobility limitations, and facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. The degree to which primary care providers in 27713 have embraced telemedicine, including offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the overall health score. Practices that have effectively integrated telemedicine into their operations demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to adapt to evolving healthcare needs.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. The 27713 ZIP code's health score is significantly influenced by the presence of mental health providers, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. The integration of mental health services into primary care can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The presence of community mental health centers, crisis intervention services, and programs that address specific mental health needs, such as substance abuse, further enhances the overall health score.

Durham's primary care availability, and specifically within the 27713 ZIP code, is influenced by several factors beyond the number of physicians. These include the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the linguistic and cultural competency of the providers. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer flexible appointment scheduling, and employ staff who speak multiple languages enhance access to care for diverse populations. The presence of community health centers, which often serve underserved populations, also contributes to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score for 27713, therefore, represents a complex assessment. While the presence of major healthcare institutions like Duke Health provides a strong foundation, the distribution of resources, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of mental health services are critical factors that influence the overall health of the population. The physician-to-patient ratio, while important, is only one piece of the puzzle. A comprehensive assessment must consider the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the ability of the healthcare system to meet the diverse needs of the community.

In conclusion, assessing the health landscape of a specific area requires a nuanced understanding of the various factors that contribute to overall well-being. The 27713 ZIP code, like any community, has its strengths and weaknesses. Evaluating these factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to telemedicine adoption and mental health resources, provides a more complete picture of the health landscape and allows for targeted interventions to improve access to care and enhance the overall health of the community.

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