28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.04 percent of the residents in 28531 has some form of health insurance. 40.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 28531 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28531. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28531 and Primary Care Availability in Harkers Island

Analyzing the overall health score for doctors within ZIP code 28531, which encompasses Harkers Island, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing the availability and quality of primary care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, examining the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluating the presence of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility and the overall health landscape for residents of this coastal community.

One of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a basic understanding of the number of available doctors relative to the population they serve. In a rural area like Harkers Island, this ratio is likely to be a critical factor. A low ratio, meaning a small number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system, potentially leading to better health outcomes. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28531 requires detailed data analysis, ideally sourced from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or similar governmental agencies. This analysis would need to account for the total number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the total population of Harkers Island.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the range of services offered, the experience and qualifications of the physicians, and the overall patient experience. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, or pediatricians available? Do these practices accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? Are they accepting new patients? These factors significantly impact the accessibility and affordability of healthcare for residents. Researching individual practices within the ZIP code, including online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from healthcare directories, can help identify standout practices that consistently provide high-quality care. Examining the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics, if any, also offers insights into the standards of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing the health score, especially in a geographically isolated area like Harkers Island. Telemedicine, encompassing remote consultations, virtual monitoring, and online prescription refills, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine services among local physicians and healthcare providers can be a game-changer. Investigating the adoption rate of telemedicine by practices within 28531, and the types of services offered remotely, is essential. This includes identifying whether physicians offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities for chronic conditions, and online patient portals for communication and access to medical records.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health, often underserved in rural communities. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the ZIP code or readily accessible to residents is crucial. Are there mental health clinics or counseling services available locally? Are there partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers to facilitate referrals and integrated care? The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs also contributes to the overall health score. The presence of resources for substance abuse treatment and prevention is also a critical factor.

Furthermore, the overall health score should consider the demographics of Harkers Island. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors can all influence healthcare needs and access. For example, a larger elderly population might require more geriatric care services. The prevalence of diabetes or heart disease could necessitate specialized care and preventative programs. Understanding the specific health needs of the community is essential for a complete assessment.

In addition to these primary factors, other elements can influence the overall health score. The presence of public health initiatives, such as vaccination programs, health education campaigns, and community health programs, can positively impact the health of the population. The availability of emergency medical services, including ambulance services and the proximity of a hospital, is also critical for ensuring timely access to care in urgent situations. The presence of pharmacies and access to prescription medications is another important consideration.

A comprehensive analysis of the health score would also consider the role of community organizations and support networks. Are there local volunteer organizations that provide health-related services, such as transportation to medical appointments or assistance with managing chronic conditions? Do faith-based organizations or other community groups offer health education or support programs? These informal networks can play a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of residents.

The process of gathering and analyzing the data required for a comprehensive health score assessment can be complex. It involves collecting information from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, insurance companies, and community organizations. The data must be carefully analyzed and interpreted to provide a meaningful and accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 28531 and primary care availability in Harkers Island requires a detailed investigation into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. It also necessitates considering the demographics of the population, the presence of public health initiatives, and the role of community organizations. This comprehensive approach provides a more nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility and the overall health landscape for the residents of Harkers Island.

For a visually intuitive and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harkers Island and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent physician density, healthcare access points, and other relevant health data, allowing for a more dynamic and insightful analysis. **Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the health resources available in your community.**