27891, Whitakers, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.68 percent of the residents in 27891 has some form of health insurance. 41.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.58 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 27891 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27891. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 411 health care providers accessible to residents in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27891 and Primary Care Availability in Whitakers, NC**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 27891, encompassing the town of Whitakers, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and identifies standout practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights for residents and potential healthcare providers.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. Examining the physician density within ZIP Code 27891 reveals a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, being a rural locale, likely faces challenges common to such settings. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, a less personalized healthcare experience. Conversely, a lower ratio signifies greater accessibility. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside national averages, provides the necessary benchmarks for comparison. The analysis will consider the number of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine specialists, actively practicing within the ZIP Code.

Primary care availability in Whitakers, specifically, requires focused attention. This involves identifying the clinics and practices serving the town and evaluating their capacity. The analysis will consider factors such as the number of exam rooms, the acceptance of new patients, and the range of services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment. The operational hours of these practices, including evening and weekend availability, are also crucial. Furthermore, the presence of ancillary services, such as on-site labs or pharmacies, enhances the convenience and efficiency of care.

Standout practices within the ZIP Code are those that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation, and community engagement. These practices often distinguish themselves through patient reviews, accreditations, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Identifying these practices involves analyzing online patient feedback platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, to gauge patient satisfaction and identify areas of strength. Accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can signify a commitment to quality and patient-centered care. Furthermore, practices that embrace innovative technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, often improve communication and enhance the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the health landscape. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where access to care can be limited. The analysis will assess the availability of telehealth services among practices within ZIP Code 27891. This includes identifying practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth modalities. The adoption of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote locations.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the ZIP Code. This involves identifying psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors serving the area. The availability of mental health services is particularly critical in rural communities, which often face higher rates of mental illness and limited access to care. The analysis will consider the types of mental health services offered, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of crisis intervention services.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for ZIP Code 27891 will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score will be benchmarked against state and national averages, providing a comparative perspective. This score will offer residents a valuable tool for understanding the health landscape of their community. It will also serve as a resource for healthcare providers considering establishing a practice in the area.

The analysis will also account for social determinants of health, such as income levels, education levels, and access to transportation. These factors significantly influence health outcomes and must be considered when assessing the overall health of a community. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources will be used to provide context for the analysis.

The final report will be a comprehensive assessment, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within ZIP Code 27891. The findings will be presented in a clear and concise manner, using visual aids such as maps and charts to enhance understanding. The report will also include recommendations for improving healthcare access and quality in the area.

The information gathered will be utilized to create a detailed map of healthcare resources. To visualize the distribution of physicians, clinics, and mental health providers in the area, consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide an immersive experience, allowing you to pinpoint the location of healthcare providers, analyze demographic data, and identify areas with limited access to care.