27864, Pinetops, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 27864 has some form of health insurance. 46.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.18 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 27864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 112 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27864. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pinetops, NC (ZIP Code 27864)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the residents of Pinetops, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27864), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. These elements are synthesized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Pinetops, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric reveals the potential strain on existing resources. A high ratio, indicating a large number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially diminished quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more personalized attention. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential to calculate this ratio accurately.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves examining factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care), and the range of services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education contribute significantly to overall community health. Furthermore, practices with a history of positive patient outcomes and a focus on patient satisfaction are highly valued.

The digital age has transformed healthcare delivery, and telemedicine plays a significant role in expanding access. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers in Pinetops is a critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. This can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of use of these platforms is vital.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources in Pinetops is crucial. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, is particularly beneficial. Examining the prevalence of mental health conditions in the community and the utilization rates of mental health services provides valuable insights.

The presence of specialty care within the ZIP code or in nearby areas also impacts the overall health score. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists influences the community's ability to manage complex health conditions. The ease of access to these specialists, whether through referrals from primary care physicians or through direct access, is considered.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors within Pinetops influence health outcomes. Factors such as poverty rates, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options can significantly impact the health of the population. These factors are considered in the context of primary care availability and quality. For instance, a community with high poverty rates may require more robust outreach programs and financial assistance for healthcare services.

The healthcare infrastructure within Pinetops, including the presence of hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies, is also evaluated. The proximity of these facilities and their ability to provide timely and accessible care contribute to the overall health score. The availability of emergency services and the efficiency of the local emergency response system are also considered.

To arrive at a comprehensive health score, a weighted scoring system is employed. Each of the factors discussed – physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialty care, socioeconomic factors, and healthcare infrastructure – is assigned a weight based on its perceived importance. The scores for each factor are then combined to produce an overall health score.

The final health score is presented as a numerical value, with higher scores indicating a healthier community. This score provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape in Pinetops and can be used to identify areas for improvement. For example, a low score in mental health resources might indicate a need for increased funding for mental health services or the recruitment of mental health professionals.

Regular monitoring of the health score is crucial. Healthcare is dynamic, and changes in demographics, healthcare policies, and technology can impact the health of the community. Tracking the health score over time allows for the identification of trends and the evaluation of the effectiveness of interventions.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Pinetops, NC (ZIP Code 27864) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. While this analysis provides a general overview, a deeper dive into the specific data points for each factor is needed for a precise assessment. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Pinetops.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pinetops, including the locations of medical practices, the distribution of healthcare resources, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying areas where resources are most needed.