27860, Pantego, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.21 percent of the residents in 27860 has some form of health insurance. 42.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 27860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 592 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 526 health care providers accessible to residents in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: 27860 and Pantego

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the medical landscape within ZIP Code 27860 (covering the town of Pantego, North Carolina) focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource access. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, providing insights for residents and potential healthcare providers.

The first critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased time spent with each patient, and overall reduced access to preventative care. While specific, up-to-the-minute physician counts for Pantego are difficult to obtain due to constant fluctuations and data privacy concerns, analyzing regional data is possible. The broader Beaufort County, of which Pantego is a part, faces challenges. The area's population density and the number of practicing primary care physicians suggest a ratio that may be concerning. This can be especially true for those on Medicare or Medicaid.

Standout practices within the 27860 ZIP code and the surrounding area are identified by various factors, including patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative medicine often receive positive feedback. Identifying these practices involves researching online reviews, checking accreditation statuses (e.g., through the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care), and examining the services listed on their websites. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and offer specialized services like diabetes management or geriatric care are also highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly significant, particularly in rural areas like Pantego. Telemedicine, which includes video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves researching which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services available via telemedicine, and the ease of use of their telemedicine platforms. Practices that have integrated telemedicine seamlessly into their workflows and offer a user-friendly experience are likely to receive higher marks in this area.

Mental health resources are another crucial element of overall health. Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Investigating the types of services they offer, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, is essential. Furthermore, assessing the accessibility of these resources, including wait times for appointments and the acceptance of various insurance plans, provides a more comprehensive picture. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also a positive indicator, as it can facilitate integrated care.

The overall health score for the 27860 ZIP code and Pantego is a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element, with a lower ratio negatively impacting the score. The presence of standout practices that offer comprehensive care, coupled with a high degree of telemedicine adoption, can improve the score. Robust mental health resources, including easy access to mental health professionals and integrated care models, further enhance the overall assessment.

Addressing the challenges within the healthcare landscape of Pantego requires a multi-pronged approach. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those willing to practice in rural areas, is paramount. Promoting telemedicine adoption through incentives and training programs can expand access to care. Strengthening mental health resources, including expanding the number of mental health professionals and increasing access to affordable mental health services, is crucial. Community outreach programs that educate residents about available resources and encourage preventative care are also essential.

The overall health score for 27860 and Pantego, while potentially impacted by the physician-to-patient ratio, can be improved by several factors. The presence of quality practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will contribute significantly to the overall score. The health score should be constantly reviewed to ensure that the healthcare needs of the community are met.

To gain a more visual and data-driven understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 27860 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations, allowing you to explore the data in a dynamic and user-friendly manner.