27823, Enfield, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.08 percent of the residents in 27823 has some form of health insurance. 51.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.75 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 27823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,438 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27823. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,344 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,792 health care providers accessible to residents in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Enfield, NC (ZIP Code 27823)**

The health landscape of Enfield, North Carolina, within the 27823 ZIP code, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when viewed through the lens of arthritis care. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their approach to arthritis management, and the resources available to patients, culminating in an overall “Arthritis Score” assessment. We will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized clinics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, painting a comprehensive picture of the area’s capacity to serve individuals suffering from arthritis.

The initial hurdle in accessing arthritis care often lies in securing a primary care physician. Enfield, a predominantly rural community, likely faces a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. This means that the number of available doctors per capita is potentially smaller, leading to longer wait times for appointments and a more competitive environment for securing routine checkups. This scarcity can directly impact the early detection and management of arthritis, as timely access to primary care is crucial for recognizing symptoms and initiating treatment.

Furthermore, the specific training and expertise of primary care physicians in arthritis management are critical. While all primary care doctors are equipped to address basic medical issues, the depth of their knowledge regarding the complexities of different arthritis types, advanced treatments, and referral pathways to specialists can vary significantly. The prevalence of specific arthritis types within the community, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, will also influence the demand for specialized care and the need for physicians to be well-versed in the latest advancements in rheumatology.

Evaluating the availability of specialized rheumatology services is another key component of the Arthritis Score. The presence of rheumatologists within or near the 27823 ZIP code is a strong indicator of the community's ability to provide comprehensive arthritis care. If specialized clinics are absent, patients may need to travel considerable distances to access rheumatologists, adding to the burden of managing a chronic condition. This travel time can negatively impact patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life.

Beyond the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine in Enfield’s healthcare system plays a crucial role. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients. It can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine technologies, including secure video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, will significantly influence the Arthritis Score.

Mental health support is another vital aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the availability of readily accessible mental health professionals in the community is a crucial factor. Practices that offer integrated mental health support or have strong referral pathways to mental health specialists will score higher in this assessment.

The identification of standout practices within Enfield is essential. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care, including early detection, patient education, and the integration of various treatment modalities, deserve recognition. This might include practices that offer specialized programs for arthritis patients, actively participate in patient education initiatives, or have a strong track record of patient satisfaction. These practices serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area.

Assessing the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is also critical. These therapies are often essential for managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and maintaining independence. The accessibility of these services within the community, including the availability of qualified therapists and the acceptance of various insurance plans, will influence the overall Arthritis Score.

The availability of patient education resources is another important factor. Access to reliable information about arthritis, including treatment options, lifestyle modifications, and support groups, empowers patients to take an active role in their care. Practices that provide educational materials, host patient support groups, or partner with organizations that offer arthritis-related resources will receive higher scores.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Enfield, NC (27823) will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the community's capacity to provide comprehensive, accessible, and patient-centered arthritis care. A high score indicates a strong healthcare infrastructure that supports individuals living with arthritis, while a low score suggests areas for improvement. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the presence of standout practices, and the accessibility of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education resources.

In conclusion, the health of a community is a complex interplay of factors. Understanding the nuances of healthcare access, the expertise of local physicians, and the availability of supportive services is crucial for assessing the quality of care provided to individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of this data, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Enfield, NC (27823). Explore the data and gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.