28128, Norwood, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.98 percent of the residents in 28128 has some form of health insurance. 35.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.21 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 28128 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,559 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28128. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,245 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,118 health care providers accessible to residents in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Norwood, NC (ZIP Code 28128)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality in Norwood, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28128) requires a nuanced approach, especially when focusing on arthritis care. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial gateway to arthritis diagnosis and management, and then assess the broader healthcare ecosystem to understand its capacity to serve individuals with arthritis. The ultimate goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" that reflects the overall healthcare environment's suitability for arthritis patients in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any good arthritis care plan begins with robust primary care. In Norwood, determining the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the American Medical Association, provides a starting point. However, the true picture requires deeper investigation. This includes accounting for the number of practicing primary care physicians *within* the 28128 ZIP code, their patient load, and the acceptance of new patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for arthritis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. This involves evaluating the practices' infrastructure, including electronic health record systems and access to diagnostic tools like X-ray and MRI machines. Practices utilizing these technologies can offer more efficient and accurate assessments. Furthermore, the presence of on-site lab services and physical therapy departments can streamline the patient journey, reducing the need for multiple referrals and appointments.

Identifying standout practices requires looking beyond basic metrics. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive arthritis screening, and actively collaborate with rheumatologists are likely to deliver superior care. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, while not definitive, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Are physicians perceived as empathetic and thorough? Do patients feel heard and understood? These qualitative factors significantly impact the overall arthritis experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can be a game-changer for arthritis patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or who live in rural areas. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and access to specialist consultations without the need for in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care management. Examining the availability of telemedicine services within the 28128 ZIP code, including the types of services offered and the insurance plans accepted, will be a key component of the arthritis score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within or easily accessible from Norwood is crucial. Assessing the presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to mental health specialists will be part of the overall score. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and coping strategies for arthritis patients.

The broader healthcare ecosystem also plays a role. The proximity to rheumatologists, specialists in arthritis and related conditions, is critical. The availability of rheumatologists within a reasonable driving distance, or the ease of access to telemedicine consultations with these specialists, is a significant factor. Additionally, the presence of specialized physical therapy clinics, occupational therapy services, and pain management centers can contribute to a more comprehensive and integrated approach to arthritis care.

The "Arthritis Score" for Norwood, NC (28128) will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialist care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a snapshot of the healthcare landscape's suitability for arthritis patients.

The score will be categorized to reflect the level of accessibility and care available. This might include a range from "Poor" to "Excellent," with specific criteria defining each category. For example, a "Poor" score might indicate a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health resources. An "Excellent" score would reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health services, and easy access to specialist care.

The final score will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. Regular updates will be essential to ensure the score remains relevant and reflects the current healthcare environment.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Norwood, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a comprehensive overview of healthcare accessibility and availability within the 28128 ZIP code, empowering you with the information needed to make informed decisions about your healthcare.