28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 28511 has some form of health insurance. 52.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.24 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 28511 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28511. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 59 health care providers accessible to residents in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 28511 and Primary Care Availability in Atlantic

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment for healthcare access and quality within ZIP code 28511, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. While a precise numerical score is impossible without comprehensive, real-time data, this evaluation offers a qualitative understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, particularly concerning Atlantic's primary care needs.

The foundation of any health score rests on the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, often indicates potential challenges in accessing timely medical care. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and similar sources provide snapshots of these ratios. In 28511, and by extension, the surrounding areas of Atlantic, the physician-to-patient ratio needs careful scrutiny. If the ratio is unfavorable, residents may face longer wait times for appointments, difficulty finding a PCP accepting new patients, and increased pressure on existing medical providers. This can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, potentially impacting overall health outcomes.

Beyond simple physician counts, the distribution of healthcare providers is crucial. Are PCPs clustered in specific locations, leaving other areas underserved? This geographic disparity can create health disparities, where some communities have better access to care than others. The analysis must examine the location of practices, considering factors like transportation options and the presence of underserved populations. The accessibility of these practices, including hours of operation and the availability of evening or weekend appointments, also significantly influences the overall health score.

Standout practices within 28511 contribute positively to the health score. These practices may be recognized for providing high-quality care, employing innovative approaches, or demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered services. Identifying these practices requires evaluating factors like patient reviews, the use of electronic health records (EHRs), accreditation status, and the adoption of best practices in preventive care. Practices excelling in these areas elevate the overall health score by setting a standard of excellence and providing models for other providers to emulate.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine, or the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural or underserved areas. Examining the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs in 28511 is essential. Do practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the healthcare system directly impacts the health score, as it can reduce barriers to care, improve convenience, and potentially lower healthcare costs.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly influences the health score. The analysis must assess the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the 28511 area. Are these providers integrated into primary care practices, or are they located separately? The ease with which patients can access mental health services, including the availability of appointments and the acceptance of insurance, is paramount. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, mental health awareness programs, and crisis intervention services contributes positively to the health score by creating a supportive environment for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

The availability of specialized services also impacts the health score. While the focus is on primary care, the proximity to specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists is vital. The ease of referral from PCPs to specialists, and the wait times for appointments, are crucial factors. The presence of hospitals and urgent care facilities in the area also affects the overall health score, providing a safety net for individuals requiring immediate medical attention.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic characteristics of the population in 28511 must be considered. Factors like income levels, education, and access to healthy food and safe housing can significantly impact health outcomes. The analysis should consider the presence of social determinants of health and how healthcare providers are addressing these factors. Are practices involved in community outreach programs, or do they offer services specifically designed to address the needs of vulnerable populations? These efforts can positively impact the health score by promoting health equity and reducing health disparities.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for doctors in 28511 and the primary care availability in Atlantic is a complex metric. It is determined by a multitude of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic characteristics of the population. A comprehensive evaluation requires a detailed analysis of these factors, utilizing data from various sources and considering the specific needs of the community. Improving the health score requires a multi-faceted approach, including increasing the number of PCPs, promoting the adoption of innovative healthcare models, and addressing the social determinants of health.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28511 and the surrounding areas, including the location of practices, the distribution of resources, and potential areas of need, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, allowing you to gain valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare services in your community.