27937, Gates, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27937, Gates, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.37 percent of the residents in 27937 has some form of health insurance. 35.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.42 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 27937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 671 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 475 health care providers accessible to residents in 27937, Gates, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27937 & Primary Care in Gates

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 27937, encompassing the Gates County area, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, employing an “Arthritis Score,” considers factors ranging from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of telemedicine and mental health support, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis. The goal is to assess the accessibility and efficacy of care, ultimately empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The foundation of the Arthritis Score begins with physician density. In Gates County, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of arthritis. Examining the specific number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and, crucially, rheumatologists within ZIP code 27937 and the surrounding region is paramount. While PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, the availability of rheumatologists, specialists specifically trained in arthritis and related conditions, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and specialized treatment plans. A higher ratio of rheumatologists to the population directly correlates with improved access to specialized care, a key component of a high Arthritis Score.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care is paramount. The Arthritis Score must incorporate metrics reflecting the standard of care. This includes assessing the accreditation of local hospitals and clinics, as well as the availability of advanced imaging technologies like MRI and X-ray, essential for diagnosing and monitoring arthritis progression. Analyzing patient satisfaction surveys, if available, provides valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction with treatment plans. These qualitative factors contribute significantly to the overall score, highlighting practices that prioritize patient-centered care.

Standout practices within ZIP code 27937 and the surrounding areas are identified by their commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, providing resources and support groups to help patients understand their condition and manage their symptoms effectively. They may also offer specialized programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management clinics, all of which are crucial for managing the multifaceted challenges of arthritis. Practices that actively participate in research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, also receive a higher score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Gates County. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer patients greater flexibility, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic pain. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of telemedicine services, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, such as access to therapists, counselors, or support groups, are awarded a higher score. The Arthritis Score assesses the availability of these resources, the integration of mental health screenings into routine care, and the collaboration between physicians and mental health professionals.

Primary care availability in Gates County is a crucial factor influencing the Arthritis Score. The presence of accessible and responsive PCPs is essential for initial diagnosis, referral to specialists, and ongoing management of arthritis. The Arthritis Score considers the number of PCPs in the area, their availability for appointments, and their willingness to collaborate with rheumatologists. Practices that prioritize communication and coordination of care between PCPs and specialists receive a higher score, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive and integrated care.

The analysis also considers the availability of specific arthritis treatments. The Arthritis Score takes into account the availability of common medications, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents. Practices that offer a wide range of treatment options, including access to clinical trials, demonstrate a commitment to providing patients with the most effective and up-to-date care. The score also assesses the availability of non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and alternative therapies.

The Arthritis Score is not a static metric; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of new treatment protocols. The score is designed to provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, facilitating informed decision-making and promoting improvements in arthritis care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of arthritis care in ZIP code 27937 requires a holistic evaluation. The Arthritis Score, considering physician density, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care availability, provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape. By understanding these factors, patients can make informed choices, and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.
To explore the data further and visualize the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 27937, including physician locations, practice specializations, and accessibility factors, we recommend using CartoChrome maps.