28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28512 has some form of health insurance. 50.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.58 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 28512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28512. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,409 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Atlantic Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28512)

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, a coastal community, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and quality. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 28512 ZIP code. We will examine key factors influencing health outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment will paint a picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Atlantic Beach and its potential strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a crucial insight into the accessibility of care. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access. However, simply looking at the raw number can be misleading. Factors like the age and health profile of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the presence of seasonal residents significantly impact the demand for primary care services. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28512 requires accessing and analyzing data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. The challenge here is in finding and compiling the specific data for the geographic area.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians is critical. Are primary care providers concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient specialists available to support primary care physicians? The presence of a local hospital or medical center is a significant factor. It often serves as a hub for specialists and diagnostic services, impacting the overall quality of care. The availability of these resources influences the overall health score.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. These include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the range of services offered. Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education often demonstrate superior outcomes. Reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, when available, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences. However, it is important to note that these reviews are not always representative of the entire patient population.

The integration of telemedicine is a critical element in modern healthcare. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can also enhance convenience and reduce travel time. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 28512 is a key indicator of the community's health score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are generally considered more forward-thinking and patient-centric. Assessing the availability of these services is crucial.

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and its availability is a vital part of this analysis. The presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within or near 28512 is critical. Assessing the accessibility of mental health services involves looking at the number of providers, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as screening for depression and anxiety, is another important factor.

The health score is also influenced by the demographics of the community. Atlantic Beach, being a coastal community, may have a population that fluctuates seasonally. This can affect the demand for healthcare services and the availability of providers. The age distribution of the population is another key factor. Older populations often have higher healthcare needs. The presence of a significant retired population could increase the demand for primary care and specialized services.

Another factor is the socioeconomic status of the population. Socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and access to healthy food, can significantly impact health outcomes. Communities with higher levels of poverty and lower educational attainment often experience poorer health. Understanding the socioeconomic profile of Atlantic Beach is essential for a comprehensive health assessment.

The assessment also takes into account the community's health behaviors. Are there programs promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise and nutrition? Are there initiatives to address substance abuse or other public health concerns? The presence of these types of programs can have a positive impact on the overall health score.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a reflection of the dynamic interplay of various factors. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new providers enter the area, new technologies are adopted, and community needs evolve, the health score should be re-evaluated.

The final score should be presented as a comprehensive summary of the various factors discussed. It can be presented on a scale, with a clear explanation of the methodology and the data sources used. The score should be easily understood by both healthcare professionals and the general public. It should serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The analysis also considers the quality of the infrastructure. This includes the availability of reliable transportation, access to pharmacies, and the presence of emergency medical services. These factors can directly impact the ability of residents to access care when they need it.

This analysis aims to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Atlantic Beach, NC. It is a complex undertaking, requiring the collection and analysis of data from various sources. However, the resulting "Overall Health Score" can be a valuable tool for understanding the health of the community.

The score should also consider the presence of any unique healthcare challenges or opportunities. Coastal communities may face specific issues, such as the impact of seasonal residents or the potential for natural disasters. Identifying these factors can help to develop targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.

The data used to generate this score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The score should be a living document, reflecting the dynamic interplay of factors that influence health outcomes.

This analysis highlights the complex nature of assessing healthcare quality and access. It underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach that considers various factors.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Atlantic Beach, and to visually explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps.