07718, Belford, New Jersey Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 07718, Belford, New Jersey is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 07718 has some form of health insurance. 17.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.36 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 07718 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,668 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07718. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 954 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 07718, Belford, New Jersey.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Belford, NJ (ZIP Code 07718)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Belford, NJ (ZIP Code 07718) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will delve into various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific community.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in accessible primary care. In Belford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of this accessibility. Determining the precise ratio requires up-to-the-minute data, but generally, a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) signifies better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide estimates. However, these figures often lag, making it essential to supplement them with local insights. This could involve contacting local healthcare providers directly or consulting community health organizations.

One of the most significant factors impacting access is the concentration of primary care physicians. Are they evenly distributed throughout the ZIP code, or are there underserved pockets? Analyzing this distribution is vital. Belford’s geography, its population density, and the presence of any specific demographics (e.g., elderly residents, families with young children) all play a role. Areas with a higher concentration of vulnerable populations often require a greater density of primary care providers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Assessing this involves evaluating the reputations of local practices. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can provide valuable insights. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, and possess relevant accreditations are likely to be considered standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access, particularly for patients with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient access to care. The degree to which Belford’s primary care providers have embraced telemedicine is a key factor in our overall health score. This involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of online patient portals, and the integration of remote monitoring technologies.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, or readily available referrals to mental health specialists, is crucial. This includes assessing the presence of in-house mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors), the availability of psychiatric services, and the accessibility of mental health support groups or community resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care is a key indicator of a community's commitment to holistic health.

Further, consider the existence of any community health initiatives. Does Belford have any programs that address specific health needs, such as diabetes management, cardiovascular disease prevention, or substance abuse treatment? The presence of such programs, often run by local hospitals, community centers, or non-profit organizations, can significantly improve the overall health score. These programs often provide valuable resources and support for residents, enhancing their access to care and promoting preventative health measures.

Insurance coverage also impacts access. The percentage of residents with health insurance, the types of insurance accepted by local providers, and the affordability of healthcare services all contribute to the overall health score. Areas with a higher rate of uninsured individuals or those with limited insurance options often face significant barriers to accessing primary care. Examining the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is essential.

Another factor to consider is the demographic makeup of the population. Are there any significant disparities in health outcomes among different demographic groups? This could involve analyzing data on chronic disease prevalence, mortality rates, and access to care among various racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic groups. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving the overall health of the community.

Finally, the overall health score must consider the community’s infrastructure. The proximity of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty care providers is important. The availability of public transportation, which facilitates access to healthcare facilities, is also a key consideration. Access to pharmacies and other essential health services also plays a role.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for primary care in Belford, NJ (ZIP Code 07718) involves a multifaceted evaluation. This analysis underscores the importance of considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, assessing mental health resources, and analyzing community health initiatives. By examining these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belford and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care providers, hospitals, and other relevant healthcare facilities, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights for residents, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.