28363, Marston, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.34 percent of the residents in 28363 has some form of health insurance. 44.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.96 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 28363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28363. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,444 health care providers accessible to residents in 28363, Marston, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28363 & Marston, NC

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within the ZIP code 28363, encompassing the town of Marston, North Carolina, with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Arthritis Score" assessment.

The foundation of accessible healthcare lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In Marston and the surrounding areas within 28363, this ratio presents a significant challenge. Rural communities often grapple with a scarcity of primary care physicians, a trend exacerbated by factors such as limited specialist availability and the geographical isolation of patients. This scarcity directly impacts wait times for appointments, the continuity of care, and the overall ability of individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis to receive timely and consistent medical attention. The limited number of primary care providers potentially creates a bottleneck, hindering proactive management of arthritis symptoms and increasing the likelihood of exacerbations.

Evaluating individual practices within the ZIP code reveals variations in their suitability for arthritis patients. Some practices may distinguish themselves through their commitment to specialized care. This can include having physicians with a particular interest in rheumatology, or those who are well-versed in the latest treatment options for arthritis. Practices that offer on-site physical therapy or occupational therapy services are particularly valuable, as these therapies are crucial components of arthritis management. The availability of these services eliminates the need for patients to travel to multiple locations for comprehensive care, improving convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical element in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who struggle with transportation. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, reducing the burden on patients and allowing for more frequent monitoring of their condition. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them seamlessly into their workflow are likely to provide a higher "Arthritis Score" due to the increased accessibility they offer. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet connectivity, which can be a challenge in some areas of 28363.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital consideration. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the challenges of managing a long-term illness can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integrated approach allows for the early identification and management of mental health concerns, contributing to improved patient outcomes and overall quality of life. Practices that offer support groups or educational programs for arthritis patients and their families also contribute to a higher "Arthritis Score".

Beyond the immediate availability of medical services, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Marston and the surrounding areas plays a crucial role. The proximity to hospitals, specialist clinics, and pharmacies is a significant factor. Patients in 28363 who have access to nearby comprehensive medical facilities are likely to receive better care, especially in the event of a flare-up or a need for specialized interventions. The presence of a well-equipped emergency room and readily available diagnostic imaging services can also significantly impact the timely diagnosis and treatment of arthritis-related complications. The efficiency of the local healthcare system, including the ease of navigating referrals and obtaining necessary medications, also contributes to the overall "Arthritis Score".

The "Arthritis Score" for primary care in 28363, including Marston, is therefore a complex assessment. It reflects the interplay of various factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The areas of concern are the limited number of primary care physicians, the potential for geographical isolation, and the need for improved access to specialized services and mental health support. The strengths include the possibility of practices offering specialized arthritis care and the potential for telemedicine to improve access.

The "Arthritis Score" is not a static number; it is subject to change based on ongoing developments in the healthcare landscape. The recruitment of additional physicians, the expansion of telemedicine capabilities, and the integration of mental health services can all lead to improvements in the score. Similarly, changes in the healthcare infrastructure, such as the closure of a local clinic or the reduction in specialist availability, can negatively impact the score. Therefore, continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that individuals with arthritis in 28363 have access to the best possible care.

In conclusion, the ability to easily visualize and understand the distribution of healthcare resources is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable tool for this purpose, allowing users to explore the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare services within a specific geographic area. They also allow users to identify areas with limited access to care and to evaluate the potential impact of various factors on patient outcomes.

Want to see a detailed map of primary care availability and healthcare resources in the Marston area? **Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28363!**