27884, Stokes, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27884, Stokes, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.82 percent of the residents in 27884 has some form of health insurance. 18.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.57 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 27884 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 579 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 117 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27884. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 77 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,303 health care providers accessible to residents in 27884, Stokes, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27884 & Stokes County Primary Care

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for medical care within ZIP Code 27884, located in Stokes County, North Carolina. The focus is on primary care availability and the broader healthcare landscape, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of notable practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the health of the local healthcare system.

Stokes County, while offering a serene rural environment, faces challenges common to many less populated areas. Access to healthcare, particularly primary care, can be a significant concern. Understanding the specific dynamics within ZIP Code 27884 is crucial for residents seeking medical attention and for healthcare providers aiming to optimize their services.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

A fundamental indicator of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), available to serve a specific population. In Stokes County, and specifically within 27884, this ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural areas often experience a shortage of physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. The exact ratio fluctuates based on physician retirements, relocations, and population shifts. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau are primary sources for this information, however, specific ZIP code level data can be difficult to obtain.

The implications of a lower physician-to-patient ratio are significant. Patients may delay seeking medical attention due to appointment difficulties, potentially leading to more serious health complications. Furthermore, it can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, placing increased pressure on the available physicians and support staff. This can impact the quality of care and lead to physician burnout.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Delivery:**

Despite the challenges, Stokes County and the 27884 ZIP code may have practices that stand out for their commitment to patient care. These practices often differentiate themselves through a focus on patient-centered care, a commitment to preventative medicine, and the integration of technology. Identifying these exemplary practices requires detailed investigation.

Potential areas of excellence might include practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized services tailored to the needs of the local population. These practices frequently focus on chronic disease management, geriatric care, or pediatric services. Furthermore, the presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) could significantly improve access to care for underserved populations, offering comprehensive services regardless of ability to pay.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has the potential to greatly improve healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine within 27884 is a critical factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians via video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging.

The benefits of telemedicine are numerous. It can reduce travel time and costs for patients, improve access to specialists, and facilitate more frequent communication with healthcare providers. The success of telemedicine adoption depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of physicians to embrace technology, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers.

**Mental Health Resource Availability:**

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources within 27884 is crucial. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services, including a shortage of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources requires examining the presence of mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups. Furthermore, it's important to evaluate the integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings. This integration can improve access to mental health services and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. The availability of crisis intervention services and suicide prevention resources is also a critical factor in assessing the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for ZIP Code 27884 and primary care availability in Stokes County likely presents a mixed picture. The rural setting and potential physician shortages may create access challenges. However, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can positively impact the overall health score.

A complete analysis would require detailed data collection, including physician-to-patient ratios, the number and types of healthcare providers, the availability of telemedicine services, and the presence of mental health resources. Furthermore, qualitative data, such as patient satisfaction surveys and feedback from healthcare providers, would provide valuable insights.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 27884 and Stokes County is essential for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The complexities of healthcare access and availability demand a comprehensive and data-driven approach.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including the location of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping tools.

**Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare data for Stokes County and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.**