GOTTA BE NC

North Carolina offers a wide range of healthcare services, from large hospitals and specialized clinics to local community health centers. Major hospital systems like UNC Health, Duke Health, and Atrium Health provide top-quality care, while rural clinics and telemedicine help ensure access across the state. Whether you need routine check-ups, specialist care, or emergency services, the state’s healthcare network is extensive and continually expanding to meet the needs of its growing population.

Overview of the Healthcare System

• North Carolina’s healthcare system includes hospitals, clinics, specialty care centers, and community health providers serving urban and rural areas.
• Healthcare is a major part of the state’s economy, generating over $40 billion in GDP and providing more than 268,000 direct jobs.
• The state’s health services include both private and public providers, including large hospital systems, federally qualified health centers, and local clinics.

Major Hospital Systems

• UNC Health – A network of hospitals and clinics, anchored by UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, known for research and specialized care.
• Duke Health – Includes Duke University Hospital in Durham, nationally recognized for cardiology, oncology, and transplant services.
• Atrium Health – Headquartered in Charlotte, it operates 40+ hospitals across the state and is one of the largest providers of care in the Southeast.
• Cone Health, Novant Health, and Mission Health – Other significant regional providers with multiple hospitals and outpatient services.

Access to Care & Coverage

• In 2021, approximately 10.4% of residents lacked health insurance, higher than the national average, though rates vary by region.
• North Carolina has expanded access through Medicaid, community health programs, and private insurance exchanges, though not all low-income residents are covered.
• Telehealth has expanded rapidly, especially in rural areas where specialist access can be limited.

Health Indicators

• Life expectancy: ~76.1 years (2020), slightly below the national average.
• Per-capita healthcare spending: $10,419 (2020), ranking 42nd in the U.S.
• Common health challenges include obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and smoking-related illnesses, especially in rural counties.

Specialized Care & Research

• North Carolina is home to world-class research hospitals and medical schools, including UNC, Duke, and Wake Forest, providing cutting-edge treatment and clinical trials.
• Specialty areas include cancer treatment, organ transplants, cardiovascular care, neurology, and pediatric medicine.
• The state is a hub for biotech and pharmaceutical research, particularly in the Research Triangle Park region.

Rural vs. Urban Healthcare

• Urban centers like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham have top-tier hospitals, specialists, and clinics, while rural counties may face longer travel times to hospitals and fewer specialized services.
• Community health clinics and telemedicine programs help bridge gaps in rural access, ensuring residents can receive primary care and preventive services.