27982, Waves, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 27982, Waves, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27982 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 27982 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27982. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27982, Waves, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Waves, NC (ZIP Code 27982)

Analyzing the overall health score for residents of Waves, North Carolina (ZIP code 27982) necessitates a deep dive into the availability and quality of primary care, a critical foundation for community well-being. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and assesses the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Waves, offering insights into strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

Waves, a small coastal community, likely faces unique healthcare challenges compared to more densely populated areas. The limited population base may influence the number of available physicians and the resources dedicated to healthcare infrastructure. Therefore, understanding the specific context of Waves is crucial for a meaningful assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Waves requires access to up-to-date, localized data. Publicly available information from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board can provide population estimates and physician licensing data. However, the crucial step involves cross-referencing these sources to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 27982 ZIP code.

A low physician-to-patient ratio (e.g., a high number of patients per physician) signals a potential shortage of primary care providers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing providers, and potentially, delayed or inadequate care. Conversely, a favorable ratio indicates greater accessibility to primary care services. The ideal ratio varies depending on factors like the age and health profile of the population. Waves' demographics, including the proportion of elderly residents and those with chronic conditions, will significantly impact the ideal ratio.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout primary care practices in Waves involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology.

Researching online reviews from patients can offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide information on physician ratings, patient feedback, and practice specialties. Furthermore, contacting local healthcare organizations or the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services may reveal information about practices known for their commitment to quality and patient-centered care.

Standout practices often prioritize preventive care, offering services like annual checkups, vaccinations, and screenings. They may also have specialized programs for managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator of a modern, efficient practice. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and enhance patient safety.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Waves can significantly impact access to care, especially for residents with mobility issues or those living far from healthcare facilities.

Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, or other telehealth options. This information can often be found on practice websites or through direct inquiries.

Telemedicine can improve access to primary care, mental health services, and specialist consultations. It can also reduce travel time and costs for patients. However, the success of telemedicine depends on several factors, including reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and adequate reimbursement policies.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Waves is a crucial factor in assessing the community's well-being.

Evaluating mental health resources involves identifying local providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Information on these providers can be obtained through the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services, local hospitals, or mental health advocacy organizations.

The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important. These resources provide a safety net for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a positive sign, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Determining a precise overall health score for Waves requires a comprehensive data analysis. However, based on the factors discussed, we can infer that the community's health score is likely influenced by several factors.

The physician-to-patient ratio will be a critical determinant. A favorable ratio, combined with the presence of high-quality primary care practices, will positively impact the score. The adoption of telemedicine can enhance access to care, especially for those in remote areas. The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial factor.

Waves, like many rural communities, may face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare providers. Addressing these challenges through innovative solutions, such as telemedicine and partnerships with larger healthcare systems, is essential for improving the overall health score.

Further, a detailed assessment of Waves' healthcare landscape would benefit from utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing a clear, concise overview of the healthcare infrastructure in the area.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waves and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and understand the health of your community.