27973, Shawboro, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.36 percent of the residents in 27973 has some form of health insurance. 28.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.44 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 27973 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 202 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27973. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 240 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 214 health care providers accessible to residents in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina.

The analysis of arthritis care availability and primary care resources within the ZIP code 27973, encompassing the Shawboro, North Carolina area, presents a complex picture. Evaluating "doctors in ZIP Code 27973" and "primary care availability in Shawboro" requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in determining the overall “Arthritis Score” for the region.

Shawboro, a primarily rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial starting point. While precise numbers fluctuate, rural areas often demonstrate a lower physician density compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. This scarcity directly impacts wait times for appointments, the ability to establish a consistent patient-physician relationship, and overall access to specialized care, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. A low physician-to-patient ratio would, therefore, negatively impact the Arthritis Score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several criteria. A practice excelling in arthritis care would likely have a dedicated rheumatologist or a primary care physician with specialized training and experience in managing arthritis. This includes proficiency in diagnosing various arthritis types, prescribing appropriate medications, and offering physical therapy and other supportive services. A practice's commitment to patient education, providing resources on self-management techniques, and coordinating care with other specialists (e.g., orthopedic surgeons) would further enhance its standing. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines or access to MRI services, would also streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient convenience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, who may experience mobility limitations. A practice actively utilizing telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would positively influence the Arthritis Score. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is critical for arthritis patients. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, would significantly improve the Arthritis Score. Collaboration between primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and mental health professionals ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.

Specific examples of practices within 27973 are difficult to provide without violating privacy. However, the analysis would involve researching local healthcare providers, examining their websites, and consulting online reviews and patient testimonials. This information would help determine the presence of specialists, the availability of telehealth services, and the integration of mental health resources. The quality of care provided by these practices would be a key factor in determining the overall Arthritis Score.

The “Arthritis Score” wouldn't be a single number but rather a composite assessment. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to comprehensive arthritis care, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. Shawboro, with its rural setting, likely faces challenges in several of these areas.

The analysis of "primary care availability in Shawboro" is closely linked to the arthritis score. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms. Their ability to diagnose, manage, and refer patients to specialists is crucial. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses and treatment. A shortage of primary care physicians would negatively affect the Arthritis Score, as it could delay diagnosis and referral to specialists.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care plays a significant role. Primary care physicians who are knowledgeable about arthritis and can provide initial management strategies, such as recommending over-the-counter medications or physical therapy, can improve patient outcomes. The ability of primary care physicians to coordinate care with specialists and provide ongoing support is also vital. A strong primary care infrastructure would significantly improve the overall Arthritis Score.

In conclusion, assessing the "Arthritis Score" for Shawboro requires a thorough evaluation of various factors. While challenges related to rural healthcare access are likely present, identifying and supporting practices that prioritize comprehensive arthritis care is crucial. The integration of telemedicine and mental health resources is particularly important. The availability of primary care physicians and their ability to provide quality care also significantly impact the score.

For a more in-depth visual analysis of healthcare resources in Shawboro and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to care, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and help you better understand the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 27973.