28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 28468 has some form of health insurance. 55.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.46 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 28468 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28468. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 28468, Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

The health landscape of Sunset Beach, North Carolina, nestled within the 28468 ZIP code, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare accessibility and resources. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for both the doctors practicing in this area and the availability of primary care services requires a nuanced analysis, considering factors beyond simple physician counts.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas like Sunset Beach often grapple with a lower concentration of physicians compared to urban centers. This disparity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized care, and a potential strain on existing healthcare providers. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly critical, as they serve as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. A shortage of PCPs can exacerbate health disparities and negatively impact the overall health score.

Beyond physician density, the characteristics of the medical practices themselves are vital. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. These include the breadth of services offered, the adoption of advanced technologies, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of a patient-centered approach to care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive services under one roof, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient management often demonstrate higher levels of efficiency and patient outcomes.

The rise of telemedicine has profoundly impacted healthcare delivery, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to care. The adoption rate of telemedicine among doctors in the 28468 ZIP code is a significant factor in the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide greater convenience for patients, improve access to specialists, and facilitate more frequent follow-up appointments, especially for those managing chronic conditions. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the 28468 ZIP code is a critical indicator of the community's well-being. Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas, which can lead to delayed treatment, increased rates of mental illness, and a higher risk of suicide. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings, known as collaborative care, can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local organizations also contributes to a more robust mental health infrastructure.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves examining patient outcomes. This includes assessing rates of chronic disease management, hospital readmission rates, and preventative care utilization. Practices that demonstrate positive patient outcomes, such as improved blood pressure control in patients with hypertension or reduced rates of diabetes complications, are indicative of a higher overall health score. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide valuable insights into practice performance and quality metrics.

The financial aspects of healthcare access cannot be ignored. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring that residents of Sunset Beach can afford necessary medical services. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or work with patients to develop payment plans can improve access to care and reduce the burden of medical debt. The cost of healthcare services, including prescription medications, also plays a role in overall health outcomes.

The age and demographics of the population within the 28468 ZIP code also influence the healthcare needs of the community. A larger population of older adults, for example, may require more specialized geriatric care and increased access to long-term care facilities. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, is also influenced by demographic factors. Healthcare providers must tailor their services to meet the specific needs of the population they serve.

Furthermore, the level of community involvement in healthcare initiatives can impact the overall health score. The presence of community health programs, such as free clinics, mobile health units, and health education campaigns, can improve access to care and promote healthy behaviors. Partnerships between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations can create a more comprehensive and coordinated healthcare system.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities is another consideration. The availability of modern, well-equipped medical offices, hospitals, and urgent care centers is essential for providing high-quality care. The proximity of these facilities to residents of Sunset Beach is also a factor. Access to emergency medical services, including ambulance services and air transport, is critical for responding to medical emergencies.

The overall health score for doctors in the 28468 ZIP code and the primary care availability in Sunset Beach is a multifaceted assessment. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, patient outcomes, financial accessibility, demographics, community involvement, and physical infrastructure. It is not a static metric, but rather a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's strengths and weaknesses.

Understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with unmet needs is crucial for improving health outcomes. To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sunset Beach and surrounding areas, and to analyze the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This resource provides valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare services in the 28468 ZIP code and beyond.