27849, Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27849, Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.18 percent of the residents in 27849 has some form of health insurance. 55.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.78 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 27849 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 292 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27849. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 389 health care providers accessible to residents in 27849, Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27849 and Primary Care in Lewiston Woodville

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 27849 (encompassing Lewiston, NC, and surrounding areas) and specifically examines primary care resources in Lewiston Woodville. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" based on factors critical for patients managing arthritis, including physician access, practice quality, and integration of supportive services. The analysis considers the unique challenges of rural healthcare access, focusing on how local resources meet the needs of arthritis patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 27849 presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often experience a shortage of healthcare providers, including specialists like rheumatologists, who are crucial for arthritis diagnosis and management. While this ZIP code may have a reasonable number of general practitioners, the scarcity of rheumatologists necessitates patients traveling to larger cities like Greenville or Rocky Mount for specialized care. This travel burden adds to the challenges of managing a chronic condition, impacting medication adherence and overall quality of life. The "Arthritis Score" reflects this limitation, penalizing the lack of readily accessible specialist care.

Primary care availability in Lewiston Woodville is a critical component of the "Arthritis Score." Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for arthritis patients, providing initial assessments, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of co-morbidities. The proximity and accessibility of PCPs in Lewiston Woodville are crucial. Factors considered include the number of practices, their operating hours, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices with extended hours, weekend availability, and telehealth options receive higher scores. The analysis also evaluates the patient-centeredness of these practices, looking for evidence of care coordination, patient education materials, and support groups.

Standout practices within the area are identified based on their commitment to arthritis care. This evaluation considers factors like the experience of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-rays), and their integration of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education related to arthritis management and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and shared decision-making receive higher scores. The analysis also considers patient reviews and testimonials, looking for evidence of positive patient experiences and effective communication.

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor in the "Arthritis Score." Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas who face transportation challenges. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education receive higher scores. The analysis assesses the ease of use of telehealth platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan. Practices that leverage technology to enhance patient engagement and improve outcomes are highly valued.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and disability associated with arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The "Arthritis Score" evaluates the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that screen for mental health concerns, provide referrals to mental health professionals, and offer integrated behavioral health services receive higher scores. The analysis also considers the availability of educational resources and support groups for patients and their families.

The "Arthritis Score" methodology involves a weighted scoring system, assigning points to each factor based on its importance to patient care. The final score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of arthritis care in the area. The score is not simply a numerical value; it is a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The analysis emphasizes the need for improved access to specialist care, increased telemedicine adoption, and greater integration of mental health services.

Improving the "Arthritis Score" requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing the physician shortage through recruitment and retention efforts is essential. Expanding telemedicine capabilities and promoting the use of remote monitoring technologies can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices can address the psychological impact of arthritis. Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and patient advocacy groups can improve care coordination and support patient self-management.

The "Arthritis Score" is a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for their needs. The analysis highlights the need for a patient-centered approach, focusing on the individual needs of each patient and providing the support they need to manage their condition effectively.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27849, including the locations of practices, their services, and the demographics of the patient population, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare access and identifying areas where resources are needed most.