27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.77 percent of the residents in 27885 has some form of health insurance. 50.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.26 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 27885 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 58 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27885. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 36 health care providers accessible to residents in 27885, Swanquarter, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27885 and Primary Care Availability in Swanquarter

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality in a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27885, encompassing a portion of Eastern North Carolina, and particularly examines the availability of primary care services in the small community of Swanquarter, North Carolina. The goal is to assess the "Arthritis Score," a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease with which individuals with arthritis can access appropriate medical care, including primary care, specialists, and supporting resources. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In ZIP code 27885, the ratio is likely influenced by the rural nature of the area. Eastern North Carolina, in general, often faces challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to a potentially higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially limited access to specialized care. The specific ratio within 27885 would require detailed data analysis, including the number of primary care physicians, rheumatologists (specialists crucial for arthritis management), and the total population. Publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards could provide the necessary data.

The availability of primary care physicians in Swanquarter, a smaller community within the ZIP code, is of particular concern. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms of arthritis. They can provide initial diagnoses, manage chronic conditions, and refer patients to specialists when necessary. If Swanquarter has a limited number of primary care physicians, residents may face significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient care. This can necessitate travel to larger towns or cities, adding to the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility limitations common in arthritis.

Identifying standout medical practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices may demonstrate best practices in arthritis care, such as employing specialized staff, offering comprehensive treatment plans, and providing patient education. Researching local hospitals, clinics, and physician groups is crucial. Websites, patient reviews, and professional directories can offer insights into the quality of care provided. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education, utilize evidence-based treatment guidelines, and prioritize patient communication would be considered more favorable.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. For individuals with arthritis, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with physicians, remote monitoring of symptoms, and access to educational resources. The extent to which practices in 27885 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring tools, and secure communication platforms, would be a key element in the Arthritis Score assessment.

The integration of mental health resources is also vital. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person's mental well-being. Pain, disability, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and integration of mental health screening into routine care.

Assessing the Arthritis Score also requires an understanding of the specific challenges faced by the community. Factors like transportation limitations, socioeconomic disparities, and the prevalence of other chronic conditions can influence access to care. The analysis should consider these factors and their impact on the ability of individuals with arthritis to receive appropriate medical attention. This may involve examining the availability of public transportation, the affordability of healthcare services, and the presence of community-based support programs.

Furthermore, the availability of resources beyond direct medical care is important. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative services. These therapies can help manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with arthritis. The Arthritis Score would be positively influenced by the presence of these resources within the ZIP code or in nearby areas.

The analysis should also consider the level of patient education provided by healthcare providers. Patients with arthritis need to understand their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Practices that offer educational materials, workshops, and support groups can empower patients to take an active role in their care. This includes providing information on medication management, exercise programs, and lifestyle modifications.

The overall Arthritis Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care in Swanquarter, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of supporting services. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more comprehensive approach to treatment, and a greater likelihood of positive outcomes for individuals with arthritis.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27885, with a specific focus on the challenges and opportunities related to arthritis care. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, inform healthcare policy decisions, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with arthritis in this region.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 27885 and Swanquarter, including the locations of medical practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the area, allowing you to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and assess the accessibility of care. Explore the power of visual data with CartoChrome maps today.