27217, Burlington, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.06 percent of the residents in 27217 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.61 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 27217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,373 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,466 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,762 health care providers accessible to residents in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score: A Burlington, NC (27217) Primary Care Landscape Analysis

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" perspective on the primary care landscape in Burlington, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27217 ZIP code. We'll examine factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps for further exploration. The "Arthritis Score" is an internally devised, qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

The foundation of accessible healthcare is the physician-to-patient ratio. In 27217, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, a general assessment reveals a need for greater physician density. This impacts wait times for appointments, which is especially challenging for those experiencing arthritis flare-ups. A higher physician-to-patient ratio indicates a more favorable environment for timely care. The Arthritis Score reflects this reality, with lower scores for areas with limited physician availability.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. The Arthritis Score considers factors such as the presence of on-site specialists (e.g., rheumatologists), access to diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs), and physical therapy services. Practices that offer these integrated services streamline care and reduce the burden on patients who might otherwise have to navigate multiple appointments at different locations. The Arthritis Score awards higher ratings to practices that offer comprehensive, coordinated care.

Several primary care practices in 27217 demonstrate noteworthy characteristics. While specific names are omitted to maintain objectivity, practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient education, particularly concerning arthritis management, receive higher scores. This includes providing educational materials, support groups, and readily available information on medication management and lifestyle modifications. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to arthritis also receive favorable consideration. The Arthritis Score acknowledges these efforts to improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the Arthritis Score. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or medication adjustments, is invaluable for individuals with arthritis. Telemedicine reduces the need for travel, which can be difficult for those experiencing pain and mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure video consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, receive higher scores. The Arthritis Score reflects the increasing importance of accessible, convenient healthcare options.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of arthritis care, but they are critical. Living with chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have strong partnerships with mental health providers receive higher scores. This recognizes the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of arthritis alongside the physical symptoms.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for primary care in 27217 reflects a landscape with both strengths and areas for improvement. While some practices demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including telemedicine and mental health integration, the overall physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized services could be improved. The Arthritis Score highlights the need for continued efforts to enhance access to care, improve coordination of services, and address the multifaceted needs of individuals managing arthritis.

The impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the evolving landscape of insurance coverage also play a role. The Arthritis Score considers the acceptance of various insurance plans and the affordability of services. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer transparent pricing information receive more favorable ratings. This ensures that patients have access to care regardless of their insurance coverage. The Arthritis Score emphasizes the importance of financial accessibility.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score considers the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as appointment scheduling efficiency, wait times, and the responsiveness of staff. Practices that prioritize patient communication and provide a welcoming environment receive higher scores. The Arthritis Score acknowledges the importance of a positive patient experience in promoting adherence to treatment plans and improving overall well-being.

The analysis also acknowledges the role of community resources. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of support groups, exercise programs, and other community-based resources that can assist individuals with arthritis. Practices that collaborate with community organizations and provide referrals to these resources receive higher scores. This reflects the importance of a holistic approach to arthritis management.

The future of primary care in 27217 holds promise. The increasing adoption of technology, the growing awareness of the importance of mental health, and the ongoing efforts to improve access to care are all positive trends. The Arthritis Score is a dynamic assessment, and it will evolve as the healthcare landscape changes.

In conclusion, navigating the healthcare system, particularly when dealing with a chronic condition like arthritis, can be challenging. The Arthritis Score provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in 27217. While this analysis provides a general overview, it is essential to conduct further research and consider individual needs when selecting a primary care provider.

To gain a more detailed and geographically specific understanding of the primary care landscape in Burlington, NC, and to identify practices that best meet your needs, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual and interactive way to explore healthcare resources, allowing you to identify practices based on location, services offered, and other relevant criteria. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the data discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare.