27812, Bethel, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27812, Bethel, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.03 percent of the residents in 27812 has some form of health insurance. 47.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.44 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 27812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 109 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27812. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 603 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,756 health care providers accessible to residents in 27812, Bethel, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bethel, NC (ZIP Code 27812)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Bethel, North Carolina (ZIP code 27812) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The assessment considers various factors to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. It does not provide a numerical score but offers a qualitative evaluation.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Bethel, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Access to primary care providers is a cornerstone of preventative medicine and early intervention. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and improved opportunities for proactive healthcare management. The precise physician-to-patient ratio for 27812 requires up-to-the-minute data, which is constantly changing. Reliable sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential to determine this ratio accurately.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the distribution of practices matters. Are primary care physicians concentrated in specific areas within the ZIP code, or is there equitable coverage throughout the community? Geographic disparities can create healthcare deserts, where residents face significant challenges in accessing care due to distance or lack of transportation. Further, the types of practices are important. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially greater access to specialists. Affiliations with larger systems may also provide access to advanced technology and resources.

Standout practices within the Bethel area, if any, warrant specific attention. These practices may be recognized for exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, or specific areas of expertise. Identifying these practices can help highlight best practices and provide valuable insights for improving overall healthcare quality in the community. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, quality metrics (e.g., preventative screening rates), and the adoption of patient-centered care models should be considered when evaluating standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its continued integration is essential for improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas. The availability of telehealth options for primary care visits, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations can significantly improve healthcare access and convenience. Examining the extent to which practices in Bethel offer telehealth services, including the types of platforms used and the range of services available, is important.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. Access to mental healthcare providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is critical for addressing mental health concerns and promoting well-being. The availability of mental health services in Bethel, including the number of providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services, needs thorough investigation. This includes examining whether there are any specific programs or initiatives focused on mental health within the community.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is also a key consideration. Co-locating mental health providers within primary care practices or establishing referral pathways between primary care and mental health specialists can improve access to care and facilitate early intervention. The presence of these integrated services can significantly improve the overall health score for the Bethel area.

Finally, the affordability of healthcare services is a significant factor. The cost of care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses, can impact access to care. Understanding the insurance coverage rates in Bethel and the availability of financial assistance programs can help assess the affordability of healthcare services.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Bethel, NC (ZIP code 27812) is a complex assessment requiring a multifaceted approach. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of practices, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care provides a comprehensive evaluation. The specific details of each of these areas will determine the overall health score.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Bethel and gain deeper insights into the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you analyze geographic patterns, identify areas with limited access to care, and make data-driven decisions to improve healthcare outcomes in your community.