Healthcare Access in Tyrrell County
An interactive analysis of key challenges to access to care.
The Five Pillars of Healthcare Access
Access to healthcare is a complex issue. We can understand it better by looking at four key pillars. Click each tab below to explore the data-driven challenges facing Tyrrell County in each area.
Pillar I: Health Insurance Coverage
Insurance is the primary gateway to care. Tyrrell County's data reveals a significant reliance on public coverage, with nearly half of all children covered by Medicaid or CHIP.
Pillar II: Workforce & Availability
Care is inaccessible if providers and facilities are not available. Tyrrell County is a distinct "medical desert," with no hospital and no private practice specialists within county lines.
Residents rely heavily on the Martin-Tyrrell-Washington District Health Department and the Columbia Medical Center for primary care. Emergency services require travel to Washington, Chowan, or Dare counties.
Pillar III: Utilization & Timeliness
Utilization metrics reflect the lack of local infrastructure. The rate of preventable hospital stays suggests that chronic disease management is challenging due to limited local access.
Pillar IV: Affordability
Affordability is a critical barrier. With a median household income of $43,952 and a poverty rate exceeding 25%, many residents face difficult choices between healthcare and other essentials.
Pillar V: Local Investment
This pillar tracks investments in community health. While specific per-capita data is pending, local investment is focused on maintaining the tri-county health district partnership.