27944, Hertford, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27944, Hertford, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.86 percent of the residents in 27944 has some form of health insurance. 49.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.37 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 27944 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27944. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,210 health care providers accessible to residents in 27944, Hertford, North Carolina.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27944 & Primary Care Availability in Hertford, NC**

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 27944 (Hertford, North Carolina) and specifically focusing on primary care access presents a complex picture. This analysis considers several critical factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational metric for assessing healthcare access. In Hertford, the ratio likely reflects the challenges often faced in rural communities. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potentially, a strain on existing healthcare providers. This can lead to a diminished overall health score. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the current ratio is crucial for targeted interventions. Public health data, such as that provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, is essential to obtain accurate data.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several aspects of care. This includes patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, the integration of technology, and the overall quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating preventative measures and comprehensive treatment plans, would contribute positively to the overall health score. Reviews from patients, accreditations from reputable organizations, and the presence of specialized services (e.g., chronic disease management programs) all contribute to a practice's standing. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is also a key factor, improving communication and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Hertford to access specialists or receive routine care remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital communication platforms, are likely to enhance the overall health score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a critical prerequisite for the successful implementation of telemedicine. This is a significant factor in Hertford, and its impact on the health score must be considered.

Mental health resources are another critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health support groups is essential for addressing mental health needs. The presence of these resources within the local community, or readily accessible through referrals, is crucial. Mental health integration into primary care settings, where physicians are trained to screen for and address mental health concerns, also contributes to a higher health score. The stigma surrounding mental health, which can be a barrier to care, must be addressed through community outreach and education.

The overall health score for Hertford is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to mental health resources and a slow adoption of telemedicine, would likely result in a lower score. Conversely, the presence of high-quality practices, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health services would contribute to a higher score.

Specifically, the presence of a well-regarded primary care practice, such as a family medicine clinic or internal medicine group, can significantly impact the score. The reputation of the physicians, the efficiency of the practice, and the breadth of services offered are all key considerations. The clinic's ability to manage chronic conditions, provide preventative care, and coordinate referrals to specialists are all crucial for a higher health score. The integration of patient education programs and health promotion initiatives can also contribute positively.

The availability of specialists, even if accessed through referrals, is also important. The proximity to specialists in areas like cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology can impact the overall health score. The ease of access to these specialists, including the availability of transportation, is a factor. The presence of a local hospital or medical center that provides a range of services, including emergency care, is also essential.

In assessing the health score, it is important to consider the demographic characteristics of the population. The prevalence of chronic diseases, the age distribution of the population, and the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes all play a role. The health score should be adjusted to reflect these factors, providing a more accurate assessment of the community's overall health status.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies can be considered. Recruiting more physicians to the area, particularly primary care physicians, is a priority. Expanding telemedicine capabilities and improving internet access are crucial. Strengthening mental health services, including increasing the number of mental health professionals and reducing the stigma associated with mental health, is also essential. Supporting and promoting the development of high-quality primary care practices, and investing in community health programs, can also contribute to a higher score.

The health score should not be viewed as a static measure. It should be regularly assessed and updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes monitoring physician-to-patient ratios, tracking the adoption of telemedicine, evaluating the availability of mental health resources, and assessing patient satisfaction. Data-driven insights should be used to inform policy decisions and resource allocation, ultimately leading to improvements in the overall health of the community.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hertford and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the detailed mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points, offering a powerful tool for understanding and addressing the health needs of the community.