27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.24 percent of the residents in 27883 has some form of health insurance. 40.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.33 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 27883 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27883. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 488 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,131 health care providers accessible to residents in 27883, Stantonsburg, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27883 & Primary Care in Stantonsburg

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for individuals managing arthritis, requires a nuanced understanding of local resources. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27883 (likely encompassing Stantonsburg, North Carolina) to assess the potential support system for arthritis sufferers. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a holistic arthritis care approach.

The cornerstone of arthritis management often begins with a strong relationship with a PCP. They serve as the initial point of contact, providing diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals to specialists like rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management experts. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access and potentially more personalized care. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially compromised patient care. Within ZIP code 27883, determining this ratio requires accessing publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. This data, when analyzed, will reveal the density of PCPs relative to the population within the specified geographic area. A preliminary investigation suggests a potential shortage of PCPs in rural areas like Stantonsburg. This scarcity can be exacerbated by factors such as physician burnout, limited insurance acceptance, and the geographic isolation of the community.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the raw numbers. We need to assess the quality of care provided. This includes factors like patient satisfaction scores, the availability of on-site services (e.g., X-ray, physical therapy), and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to arthritis management, and that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practices, are highly desirable. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can improve access for patients with mobility limitations or those who work during traditional business hours. We should also consider whether practices have a dedicated care coordinator or a nurse specializing in chronic disease management, which could be a significant asset for arthritis patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for arthritis patients, including reduced travel time, increased convenience, and the potential for remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and electronic prescription services, are better positioned to serve the needs of arthritis patients. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like reliable internet access in the patient's home and the patient's comfort level with technology. In a rural setting like Stantonsburg, internet access can be a significant barrier to entry. Assessing the availability of telemedicine and the practice's ability to address technological barriers is essential.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis care is mental health. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to local mental health providers, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. Additionally, practices that offer educational materials or support groups focused on coping with chronic pain can further enhance the patient experience. Identifying mental health providers in the area and assessing their capacity to accept new patients is a key component of this analysis.

Access to physical therapy and other rehabilitative services is equally important. Physical therapy can help improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life for arthritis patients. Practices that have strong relationships with local physical therapists or offer on-site physical therapy services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes assessing the availability of specialized physical therapy programs designed for arthritis patients, such as aquatic therapy or exercise programs tailored to specific types of arthritis.

In evaluating the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27883, we also need to consider the availability of rheumatologists. While PCPs are the first point of contact, rheumatologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The proximity of rheumatologists, the ease of referral processes, and the wait times for appointments are crucial factors in assessing the overall quality of arthritis care. If there is a significant distance to the nearest rheumatologist, this can create a major barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Furthermore, the availability of patient resources, such as educational materials, support groups, and advocacy organizations, can significantly improve the patient experience. Practices that actively promote these resources demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their own care. This includes providing information about local support groups, online resources, and national organizations dedicated to arthritis awareness and support.

Finally, the insurance landscape plays a significant role in access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are better positioned to serve the needs of the entire community. Assessing the insurance acceptance policies of local practices is therefore a crucial step in this analysis.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Arthritis Score analysis for ZIP code 27883 requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by local practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and access to specialized services like rheumatology and physical therapy. This analysis should also consider the availability of patient resources and the insurance landscape. By assessing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare resources available to arthritis sufferers in Stantonsburg and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27883, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-rich platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify key resources and assess access to care.