27252, Goldston, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27252, Goldston, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.85 percent of the residents in 27252 has some form of health insurance. 40.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.43 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 27252 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 299 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27252. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 267 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 144 health care providers accessible to residents in 27252, Goldston, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27252 & Primary Care in Goldston

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 27252 (which encompasses Goldston, North Carolina) and the surrounding areas, with a specific focus on their capacity to manage arthritis. We will assess key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive arthritis care plan. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced "Arthritis Score" for the region, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in access to care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like arthritis. Analyzing data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare provider directories is essential. The ideal ratio varies, but a benchmark of one PCP per 1,500 residents is often considered a reasonable starting point. Goldston, being a rural community, may face challenges in maintaining this ratio. The analysis will consider the population demographics of 27252 and surrounding areas to calculate the actual physician-to-patient ratio and compare it to state and national averages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified rheumatologists or PCPs with specialized training in rheumatology, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-ray, blood testing), and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, will be analyzed to gauge patient satisfaction and identify practices consistently praised for their expertise and patient-centered approach. The analysis will also consider the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services, which are vital for managing arthritis symptoms.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The "Arthritis Score" will assess the extent to which PCPs in 27252 and the surrounding areas offer telehealth options. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online access to patient portals for communication and medication refills. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, allowing them to receive follow-up care and manage their condition from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent travel.

The connection between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain and disability associated with arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the "Arthritis Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. This includes assessing whether PCPs screen patients for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals. The presence of support groups and educational programs for arthritis patients will also be considered.

Specific practices within the 27252 ZIP code and the surrounding areas will be examined. For instance, the analysis will investigate the presence and reputation of any multi-specialty clinics or larger healthcare systems that may offer a broader range of services. The analysis will look at the specific services each practice offers, including the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, physical therapy, and access to specialists. The analysis will also assess the practices' adoption of technology, such as EHRs and patient portals, to determine how well they facilitate care coordination and patient communication.

A critical aspect of the "Arthritis Score" is the assessment of insurance acceptance. The analysis will determine the extent to which PCPs in the area accept various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. This is essential for ensuring that patients have access to affordable care. The analysis will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford their medications or other healthcare expenses.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and food security, can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their arthritis. The "Arthritis Score" will assess the availability of resources and support services that address these social determinants of health, such as transportation assistance programs, food banks, and community health workers.

The final "Arthritis Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of all the assessed factors. The weighting will be based on the relative importance of each factor in determining the quality and accessibility of arthritis care. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to care and a more comprehensive approach to arthritis management. The score will provide a valuable tool for patients seeking care in the area, as well as for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve the delivery of arthritis care.

The limitations of this analysis include the reliance on publicly available data and patient reviews, which may not always be fully comprehensive or representative. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of healthcare means that the availability of services and the quality of care can change over time. Despite these limitations, this analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of arthritis care in 27252 and the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of primary care availability and quality in ZIP code 27252 and the surrounding areas, specifically focusing on the management of arthritis. This will involve evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients and informing healthcare providers.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27252 and beyond, including the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive maps provide a dynamic and detailed view of healthcare data, allowing you to visualize the key findings of this "Arthritis Score" analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.