27909, Elizabeth City, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27909, Elizabeth City, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.92 percent of the residents in 27909 has some form of health insurance. 37.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.10 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 27909 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,978 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27909. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,725 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,095 health care providers accessible to residents in 27909, Elizabeth City, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27909)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care in Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27909) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also the infrastructure supporting patient well-being, including mental health resources and the adoption of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment, offering insights into the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of any arthritis care assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In Elizabeth City, the availability of rheumatologists, specifically trained in diagnosing and treating arthritis, is a critical factor. While the exact number fluctuates, the presence of specialists is often limited in rural areas. The score is immediately impacted by the potential need for patients to travel outside of the immediate ZIP code for specialized care. This travel burden increases the complexity of care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment, and negatively impacting patient outcomes. The score is further influenced by the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), who often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, coupled with a robust understanding of arthritis management within the primary care setting, can positively influence the score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is a crucial component of the Arthritis Score. Identifying standout practices involves assessing factors like patient reviews, the breadth of services offered (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, access to imaging), and the integration of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive care plans, and actively participate in continuing medical education related to arthritis management will receive higher scores. The presence of dedicated arthritis support groups or educational programs within a practice also significantly boosts its rating.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant indicator of a practice's commitment to patient accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and medication management, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, are awarded higher scores. The seamless integration of telemedicine into the existing care workflow, ensuring ease of access and a positive patient experience, is also considered.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, integrated into the arthritis care pathway, is a crucial factor in the Arthritis Score. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, collaborate with mental health professionals, or provide referrals to mental health specialists receive higher scores. The presence of support groups, coping mechanisms, and educational resources addressing the psychological aspects of arthritis also positively influences the assessment.

The overall infrastructure supporting arthritis care in Elizabeth City is also considered. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging facilities (e.g., X-ray, MRI), physical therapy and rehabilitation services, and access to pharmacies that specialize in arthritis medications. The efficiency of the referral process, the ease of obtaining necessary medications, and the overall coordination of care contribute to the final score.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27909) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While specific numbers and rankings can fluctuate, the analysis suggests that while the availability of primary care might be adequate, the limited presence of specialized rheumatologists and the need for improved access to comprehensive mental health support are areas for improvement. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services into arthritis care are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and improving the overall quality of care. The score is also influenced by the commitment of individual practices to patient education, evidence-based treatment protocols, and the provision of a patient-centered approach. The availability of support services like physical therapy and specialized pharmacies are also important.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elizabeth City, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of specific services, and the demographics of the patient population, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, enabling a deeper dive into the intricacies of healthcare access and resource allocation in the area.