27943, Hatteras, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 27943 has some form of health insurance. 36.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.27 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 27943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33 health care providers accessible to residents in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hatteras, NC (ZIP Code 27943)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Hatteras, North Carolina (ZIP code 27943) requires a nuanced approach, considering the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its geographic isolation and coastal environment. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. We will then synthesize these factors into an estimated overall health score, acknowledging the inherent complexities of such an evaluation.

Hatteras, as a barrier island community, faces inherent limitations in healthcare access compared to more populated mainland areas. The primary care landscape is therefore intrinsically shaped by these constraints. The geographic isolation necessitates a degree of self-sufficiency and resilience within the healthcare system. This analysis will examine the available resources and their ability to meet the community's needs.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

A critical indicator of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data for Hatteras specifically can be challenging to obtain, as the population is relatively small and may fluctuate seasonally. However, based on publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and considering the geographical area, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio in Hatteras is less favorable than the state and national averages. This means that there are fewer physicians available to serve the population compared to more densely populated areas.

This lower ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to routine check-ups, and potentially, a reliance on urgent care or emergency services for non-emergency medical needs. The limited number of primary care physicians, including family doctors and general practitioners, is a significant factor influencing the overall health score.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Providers**

Despite the limitations, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers is crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. A practice that excels might offer extended hours, specialized care for specific conditions prevalent in coastal communities (e.g., skin cancer), and a commitment to patient education.

The reputation of individual physicians also plays a vital role. A physician known for their experience, compassion, and willingness to collaborate with specialists can significantly enhance the community's health outcomes. Evaluating the presence and quality of such practices is essential to understanding the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**

Telemedicine offers a powerful solution to overcome the challenges of geographic isolation. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, receive prescriptions electronically, and monitor chronic conditions through digital tools can significantly improve access to care. The extent to which telemedicine is adopted by primary care providers in Hatteras is a crucial factor.

Successful telemedicine adoption requires not only the willingness of physicians to utilize the technology but also the availability of reliable internet connectivity, patient access to devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare workflows. The degree to which these factors are in place directly impacts the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is often limited in rural and isolated communities. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is crucial. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and partnerships with mental health organizations can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

Furthermore, the integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings, where physicians can screen for mental health conditions and provide initial support or referrals, is an important indicator of a robust healthcare system. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are vital to the overall health score.

**Synthesizing the Factors: An Estimated Overall Health Score**

Based on the factors discussed, estimating an overall health score for Hatteras, NC (ZIP code 27943) is complex. The limitations in physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with the challenges of geographic isolation, likely contribute to a lower score compared to more urban areas. However, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers, the potential for telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges.

Therefore, the overall health score for Hatteras is likely to be moderate, with room for improvement. The community's resilience and the commitment of healthcare providers are key factors in maintaining a reasonable level of health outcomes. The score could be improved through increased physician recruitment, enhanced telemedicine infrastructure, and expanded mental health services.

**Conclusion: Visualizing the Healthcare Landscape**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Hatteras requires a comprehensive approach. Visualizing the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population can provide valuable insights.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hatteras and other areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and intuitive representation of healthcare access, allowing you to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape.