27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.42 percent of the residents in 27855 has some form of health insurance. 46.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.25 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 27855 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27855. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 27855 (Murfreesboro, NC) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, acknowledging the complexities inherent in such an evaluation.

The foundation of arthritis care lies in accessible primary care. Murfreesboro, a rural community, faces challenges in this area. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, Murfreesboro likely experiences a shortage of primary care physicians compared to national averages. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for arthritis sufferers. The impact is especially pronounced for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

Within Murfreesboro, the presence of a dedicated rheumatologist is paramount. The absence of a specialist within the immediate vicinity necessitates travel to larger cities like Greenville or Norfolk for specialized care. This travel burden adds to the challenges faced by patients, increasing both time and financial costs. The lack of local specialist care significantly lowers the "Arthritis Score."

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care depends on the practices themselves. Assessing "standout practices" requires examining several factors. Are practices equipped with modern diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging? Do they offer comprehensive treatment plans, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medication management? Do they have established relationships with specialists in related fields, like orthopedics? Without detailed information, it's difficult to pinpoint standout practices. However, understanding the presence of these resources is key to evaluating the "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address the limitations of rural healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the area is crucial. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations. The extent of telemedicine adoption directly impacts the "Arthritis Score." A high adoption rate suggests a more accessible and patient-centered approach.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive arthritis care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within Murfreesboro is a critical factor. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the same practice or through close collaboration, are particularly beneficial. The strength of mental health support significantly contributes to the overall "Arthritis Score."

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient education programs plays a vital role. These resources empower patients to manage their condition effectively, providing them with valuable information, peer support, and coping strategies. The existence and accessibility of these programs positively influence the "Arthritis Score."

Evaluating the "Arthritis Score" for Murfreesboro, NC (27855) requires considering the following: the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists, the quality of care offered by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the existence of patient support programs. Due to the rural nature of the community, the score is likely negatively impacted by the limited access to specialists and potential challenges in primary care availability. However, the score can be improved by leveraging telemedicine, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, and ensuring access to mental health support.

To improve the "Arthritis Score," a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes attracting more primary care physicians and specialists, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and strengthening mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a more supportive healthcare environment for arthritis sufferers.

Understanding the nuances of healthcare access and quality is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Murfreesboro and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.