27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.22 percent of the residents in 27965 has some form of health insurance. 62.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.28 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 27965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Poplar Branch, NC (ZIP Code 27965)

Poplar Branch, North Carolina, a small community nestled in the Outer Banks region, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing its overall health landscape. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 27965, with a particular emphasis on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score, while subjective, will be based on publicly available data, industry reports, and general observations about the healthcare environment in this specific area.

The primary care physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In many rural areas, this ratio can be significantly higher than the national average, indicating a shortage of doctors and potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. Data specific to Poplar Branch is often limited, but by examining county-level statistics (likely Dare County, NC, in this instance) and comparing them to national averages, a preliminary assessment can be made. It's reasonable to assume that the physician-to-patient ratio in this area is likely higher than the national average, suggesting a potential strain on the existing primary care resources. This scarcity can be further exacerbated by seasonal population fluctuations due to tourism, which can temporarily inflate the demand for healthcare services.

Identifying standout primary care practices in Poplar Branch requires a deeper dive. While specific practice names are often unavailable in a general analysis, the quality of care can be inferred through various factors. These include the availability of online patient reviews, the accreditation status of the practices, and the types of services offered. Practices that offer a broad range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and same-day appointments, are generally considered more patient-centric and contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of specialized services, such as geriatric care or pediatric care, can also significantly impact the score, especially in a community with a potentially aging population or a growing number of young families.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor to consider, especially in a geographically dispersed area like the Outer Banks. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in Poplar Branch can be assessed by examining the availability of online appointment scheduling, virtual consultations, and remote monitoring services. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to receive a higher score, as they demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. This is particularly important for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas of the zip code.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health and well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a key indicator of a community's health score. Assessing the mental health landscape in Poplar Branch involves examining the presence of local mental health providers, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Communities with robust mental health resources tend to have better overall health outcomes. The Outer Banks, with its unique environment, may also face specific mental health challenges related to seasonal changes, isolation, and economic factors.

Based on these factors, an initial 'Overall Health Score' for primary care availability in Poplar Branch (ZIP code 27965) might be considered moderate. The potential for a higher physician-to-patient ratio, the limited availability of specific practice data, and the need for further investigation into telemedicine adoption and mental health resources suggest a need for improvement. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices and the potential for community initiatives to address healthcare challenges indicate a positive outlook.

To improve the score, several strategies could be implemented. These include recruiting more primary care physicians to the area, expanding telemedicine services, increasing access to mental health resources, and promoting preventative care initiatives. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the specific healthcare needs of the Poplar Branch community.

Further research is required to provide a more precise assessment. This would involve a more detailed examination of local healthcare providers, patient satisfaction surveys, and community health needs assessments. Analyzing the specific challenges and opportunities within the context of the Outer Banks environment is also crucial. The impact of tourism and seasonal population fluctuations on healthcare demand needs to be carefully considered.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It is a reflection of the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality in a community. By continually assessing and addressing the needs of the population, Poplar Branch can strive to improve its overall health score and create a healthier community for all its residents. The ability to visualize this data, to see the landscape of care, is a powerful tool.