27821, Edward, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27821, Edward, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 64.42 percent of the residents in 27821 has some form of health insurance. 23.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.42 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 27821 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27821. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 243 health care providers accessible to residents in 27821, Edward, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Edward, NC (ZIP Code 27821)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Edward, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, requires a multifaceted approach. We’ll delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" perspective for residents of ZIP Code 27821.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians per capita, often signals potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability. Precise data on this ratio for Edward, NC, would require accessing current medical databases and population statistics. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it's reasonable to anticipate a ratio that may be less favorable than in more urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially, a less personalized patient experience.

Identifying standout medical practices within the Edward area is crucial. These practices often serve as beacons of quality care, employing innovative approaches, and fostering strong patient-physician relationships. Researching local practices would involve examining their accreditations, patient reviews, and the range of services offered. For example, a practice that offers extended hours, same-day appointments, and a comprehensive suite of preventative care services would likely score higher. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within a primary care setting, or readily accessible through referral networks, also significantly enhances the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities. Telemedicine, the practice of providing medical care remotely via technology, can bridge geographical barriers and expand access to specialists and primary care physicians. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within Edward involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into local practices. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling centers, directly impacts the health score. Evaluating the mental health landscape in Edward involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, where physicians can screen for mental health issues and provide initial treatment or referrals, is particularly beneficial.

The "Overall Health Score" for Edward, NC, is a composite of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and scarce mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, the presence of high-quality practices, robust telemedicine programs, and readily available mental health services would elevate the score. The specific score would depend on the weighted contribution of each factor, reflecting its relative importance in determining overall health outcomes.

Further research is necessary to provide a precise score. This would involve gathering data on physician numbers, practice characteristics, telemedicine availability, and mental health resources. This data should be compared to regional and national benchmarks to provide context. The analysis should consider the demographic makeup of Edward, as factors like age distribution, socioeconomic status, and chronic disease prevalence can influence the health needs of the community.

The availability of data is a significant factor. Publicly available information, such as Medicare provider directories and state health department reports, can provide valuable insights. However, accessing comprehensive data on practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources often requires direct contact with local healthcare providers and organizations.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices may open, telemedicine programs may expand, and mental health services may become more accessible. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the health needs of the Edward community are being met.

The analysis should also consider the social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation. These factors significantly impact health outcomes and should be considered alongside healthcare-specific metrics. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address these broader determinants and improve the overall health of the community.

The health score is a tool for understanding the health landscape of Edward, NC. It can inform decision-making by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the score can guide efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and promote the overall well-being of the residents.

The analysis must be conducted with sensitivity and respect for patient privacy. All data should be handled in accordance with HIPAA regulations and other relevant privacy laws. The goal is to provide information that empowers individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health.

The development of the overall health score is an iterative process. It requires ongoing data collection, analysis, and refinement. The score should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure its accuracy and relevance. Feedback from healthcare providers, community members, and other stakeholders should be incorporated to improve the quality of the analysis.

The ultimate aim is to create a healthier Edward. A comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape is the first step towards achieving this goal. By identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions, the community can work together to create a healthcare system that meets the needs of all its residents.

To visualize the health landscape of Edward, NC, and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members.