36559, Montrose, Alabama Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 36559, Montrose, Alabama is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 36559 has some form of health insurance. 71.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 36559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 47 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 107 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,132 health care providers accessible to residents in 36559, Montrose, Alabama.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in 36559 and Primary Care in Montrose

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for physicians within ZIP code 36559, focusing on primary care availability and related resources within the Montrose area. The score, though not a formal, standardized metric, considers factors crucial for arthritis patients: physician access, specialized care integration, technological adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this specific region.

The core of the analysis centers on primary care physician (PCP) availability, the initial point of contact for most arthritis patients. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating a large patient load per physician, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data sources like the US Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) are crucial for determining these ratios within 36559 and the broader Montrose area. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by state medical boards, can also provide insights into the number of actively practicing physicians.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis considers the distribution of PCPs. Are they concentrated in a few locations, or are they geographically dispersed, offering accessibility to residents across Montrose? Rural areas often face physician shortages, making this a significant factor. Accessibility also includes insurance acceptance. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more accessible to a broader patient population, including those with arthritis.

The "Arthritis Score" also evaluates the integration of specialized care. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, rheumatologists are essential for diagnosing and managing arthritis. The presence and availability of rheumatologists within or near 36559 significantly impact the score. This includes assessing the number of rheumatologists, their appointment availability, and their proximity to primary care practices. Close collaboration between PCPs and rheumatologists, facilitated by referral networks and shared electronic health records (EHRs), enhances the quality of care.

Standout practices within 36559 and the surrounding Montrose area are identified based on several criteria. These criteria include patient reviews, particularly those mentioning arthritis-related care, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-ray, ultrasound), and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offering resources on arthritis management and self-care, are also highly regarded. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis are also considered a positive indicator.

Technological adoption plays a crucial role in modern healthcare, and its influence on the "Arthritis Score" is significant. Telemedicine adoption is a key factor. Practices offering telehealth appointments for follow-up consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments online, also contributes positively to the score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services, such as therapists and counselors, within the practices themselves or through referral networks. Practices that screen for depression and anxiety and offer integrated mental health support receive a higher score. Collaboration between PCPs, rheumatologists, and mental health professionals is essential for holistic patient care.

Specific examples of practices and their strengths are carefully considered. For instance, a practice that has a dedicated arthritis clinic, offers physical therapy services on-site, and actively uses telehealth for follow-up appointments would receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with limited physician availability, long wait times, and no apparent integration of mental health resources would receive a lower score. These are hypothetical examples, and the actual scoring would depend on a thorough review of available data.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of support groups and community resources for arthritis patients. Local chapters of organizations like the Arthritis Foundation can provide valuable support, education, and advocacy. The proximity of these resources and their integration with local healthcare practices are considered.

The "Arthritis Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the integration of new services. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for individuals seeking arthritis care in 36559 and the surrounding Montrose area, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36559 and Montrose, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of specialist services, and the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a detailed, spatial representation of the data analyzed, empowering you to visualize the "Arthritis Score" factors and make informed healthcare decisions.