28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 28340 has some form of health insurance. 57.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.72 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 28340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,975 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28340. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,305 health care providers accessible to residents in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)

Analyzing the landscape of arthritis care within Fairmont, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28340) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess not only the availability of primary care physicians, who often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing joint pain, but also the broader ecosystem supporting arthritis management. This includes specialist access, resource allocation, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis will provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering key factors impacting patient care.

The foundation of arthritis care rests on accessible primary care. In Fairmont, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, both of which negatively impact arthritis management. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from local healthcare providers, is essential to determine the precise ratio. This data should be regularly updated to reflect population shifts and physician recruitment.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code matters. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? Are there barriers to access, such as transportation limitations or a lack of insurance acceptance? Addressing these disparities is crucial for equitable arthritis care.

Specialist access is another key component. Rheumatologists, who specialize in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, are essential. The availability of rheumatologists within a reasonable driving distance from Fairmont is paramount. If residents must travel long distances for specialist appointments, it can significantly impact their ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Analyzing the proximity of rheumatology practices in surrounding counties is crucial.

Beyond specialist access, the availability of supporting services further shapes the arthritis care landscape. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists play a vital role in helping patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. The presence of these resources within Fairmont, or nearby, is a significant factor in the "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can reduce travel burdens, improve access to care, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of symptoms. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services is a crucial element of the analysis. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of remote monitoring tools.

Mental health resources are also essential. Living with arthritis can be physically and emotionally challenging, and many patients experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a significant factor in the overall "Arthritis Score." The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the presence of readily accessible mental health providers in the community is highly beneficial.

To assess the "Arthritis Score," we must also consider the quality of care provided by local practices. Are practices utilizing evidence-based guidelines for arthritis management? Do they offer patient education programs? Are they actively involved in community outreach and awareness initiatives? Gathering information on these factors through patient surveys, practice reviews, and interviews with healthcare professionals is crucial.

Standout practices within the 28340 ZIP code deserve recognition. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care, including readily available primary care, specialist access, telemedicine integration, and robust mental health support, should be highlighted. Identifying these practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area and help patients make informed decisions about their care.

The "Arthritis Score" for Fairmont, NC (28340) is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates to the score should reflect changes in physician availability, specialist access, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

In conclusion, assessing the arthritis care landscape in Fairmont, NC (28340) requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local practices. By understanding these factors, we can gain a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

Ready to visualize this data and explore the healthcare landscape of Fairmont and beyond? Utilize the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a spatial understanding of physician locations, resource availability, and patient access. Explore the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.