27880, Sims, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27880, Sims, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.60 percent of the residents in 27880 has some form of health insurance. 35.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.95 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 27880 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 842 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27880. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 952 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,048 health care providers accessible to residents in 27880, Sims, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sims, NC (ZIP Code 27880)

Evaluating the overall health landscape for residents of Sims, North Carolina, necessitates a comprehensive analysis of available healthcare resources. This assessment, framed around the ZIP code 27880, delves into primary care physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the accessibility of mental health services. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Sims, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, a low ratio, indicative of fewer physicians serving a larger population, can strain the healthcare system. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced individual attention during consultations, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratio in 27880 is the first step in establishing a baseline for assessing the health of the community. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to determine this ratio.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of available primary care practices is paramount. This involves examining factors such as the credentials of the physicians, the range of services offered, and patient satisfaction levels. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and access to specialist referrals, are more likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. Patient reviews, gathered from sources like online platforms and surveys, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. A high volume of positive reviews, coupled with accreditations from reputable organizations, suggests a practice that prioritizes quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Sims. Practices that embrace telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, offering convenient access to healthcare professionals. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns. The degree to which practices in 27880 have integrated telemedicine platforms directly impacts the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of a comprehensive healthcare system. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a crucial indicator of community well-being. Evaluating the number of mental health providers within the ZIP code, as well as their accessibility and affordability, is vital. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health specialists, facilitating integrated care, further enhances the health score. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contribute to a robust mental health infrastructure.

Identifying standout practices within 27880 requires a closer look at individual performance. This includes analyzing factors such as patient outcomes, the utilization of evidence-based practices, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, emphasizing communication, shared decision-making, and personalized treatment plans, typically achieve higher patient satisfaction and improved health outcomes. These practices often serve as models for others, driving overall improvements in the healthcare landscape.

The availability of specialized care within or near Sims also influences the overall health score. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, is crucial for addressing complex medical needs. The proximity of these specialists, or the ease of referral processes, impacts the accessibility of specialized care. This can be assessed by looking at the number of specialists within a reasonable driving distance and the efficiency of the referral pathways.

The overall health score for Sims, NC (ZIP Code 27880) is a dynamic measure, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and specialized care availability all contribute to the overall assessment. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to mental health services and a lack of telemedicine adoption, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with high-quality practices, robust mental health resources, and widespread telemedicine integration, would positively impact the score.

The health score is also influenced by socioeconomic factors. The presence of health insurance, the level of education, and the prevalence of chronic diseases within the community all play a role. Addressing these underlying social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall well-being of residents. This requires collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

Ultimately, the health score is a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape. It serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas of strength and weakness, informing strategic planning, and guiding resource allocation. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential for tracking progress and ensuring that the healthcare system effectively meets the needs of the community.

The health landscape is constantly evolving, and understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and access to resources is critical. To gain a visual understanding of the health resources in Sims, NC, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data.