27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.21 percent of the residents in 27948 has some form of health insurance. 25.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.76 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 27948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,947 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27948. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 847 health care providers accessible to residents in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Kill Devil Hills, NC (ZIP Code 27948)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for healthcare access and quality within the Kill Devil Hills, NC (ZIP Code 27948) area. This score considers various factors, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. The goal is to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

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

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Kill Devil Hills requires accessing specific, up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, general observations suggest a potential challenge. As a popular tourist destination and a growing residential area, Kill Devil Hills may experience fluctuating population densities, impacting the perceived availability of PCPs. This means that while the area may have a reasonable number of physicians, the demand from both permanent residents and seasonal visitors could strain resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential difficulties in establishing a consistent doctor-patient relationship.

Primary care availability is crucial. A shortage can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions, and a decline in preventative care. The analysis must consider the number of family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric specialists practicing within the ZIP code. Additionally, it must assess the presence of urgent care clinics and their role in supplementing primary care services. The accessibility of these facilities, including their hours of operation and insurance acceptance, is a key factor.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Evaluating the quality of care requires examining the reputation and performance of local medical practices. This involves assessing factors like patient satisfaction scores, physician experience, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, and utilize advanced technologies are likely to be considered "standout" performers.

Specific indicators of quality include the availability of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate information sharing and coordination of care. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, also indicates a commitment to quality and patient safety. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the range of services offered by each practice, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized care. Practices that offer a comprehensive suite of services, including on-site laboratory testing or imaging, can enhance patient convenience and streamline the healthcare experience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Digital Health Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial aspect of modern healthcare, particularly in rural or geographically dispersed areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, improving access to care, reducing travel time, and enhancing convenience. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be considered more innovative and patient-centric. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the technology, and the availability of technical support for patients. The integration of telemedicine with EHRs is also a key indicator of a well-coordinated healthcare system.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in assessing the health score. The analysis must identify the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the Kill Devil Hills area. It should also evaluate the accessibility of these services, including wait times for appointments, insurance acceptance, and the availability of crisis intervention services.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the integration of mental health services with primary care. Co-location of mental health professionals within primary care practices can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. The availability of support groups, educational resources, and community-based mental health programs also contributes to a supportive healthcare environment. The analysis should assess the presence of these resources and their accessibility to residents.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Kill Devil Hills, NC (ZIP Code 27948) is a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Any challenges in any of these areas will negatively impact the score.

Based on the above analysis, the 'Overall Health Score' for Kill Devil Hills, NC, can be improved by addressing any potential physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, increasing access to mental health services, and supporting the development of high-quality medical practices.

The quality of healthcare in any region is dynamic and constantly evolving. For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kill Devil Hills and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, physician specialties, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.