28364, Maxton, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 28364 has some form of health insurance. 48.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.46 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 28364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,605 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28364. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,090 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Maxton, NC (ZIP Code 28364)

This analysis evaluates the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within Maxton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28364), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine adoption, and related mental health resources. The "Arthritis Score" is a composite, qualitative assessment, considering factors impacting a patient's ability to effectively manage their condition. The analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, assisting residents in navigating their arthritis care options.

The foundation of good arthritis care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Maxton, a relatively rural community, faces inherent challenges in physician distribution. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the 28364 ZIP code likely experiences a ratio reflecting the broader trends in rural North Carolina, potentially indicating a shortage of PCPs compared to urban areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for arthritis sufferers.

Examining the practices within the area reveals a mixed bag. Some practices may prioritize patient-centered care, offering extended hours, same-day appointments for acute flare-ups, and efficient communication channels. Others might struggle to meet the demands of a large patient population, leading to less personalized attention. Identifying standout practices requires delving into patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized services (e.g., on-site physical therapy), and evaluating the responsiveness of the support staff. The presence of a practice that actively embraces these features would significantly boost the "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Its adoption within Maxton's primary care practices is a crucial factor. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for virtual consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments significantly improve accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The ease of access to a doctor from home can substantially improve the quality of life for arthritis patients. Conversely, practices slow to embrace telemedicine may be hindering access to care.

Arthritis often coexists with mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety. The "Arthritis Score" must factor in the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals collaborate directly with PCPs, are ideal. The presence of these services signals a more holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. Conversely, a lack of such resources could indicate a critical gap in care.

The availability of specialized care is also essential. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of rheumatologists and other specialists are crucial. The ability of a PCP to effectively manage arthritis depends on their ability to consult with and refer patients to appropriate specialists. The ease of making referrals, the speed of specialist appointments, and the coordination of care between PCPs and specialists all contribute to the overall "Arthritis Score."

The "Arthritis Score" is also affected by the availability of patient education resources. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, self-management strategies, and support groups empower individuals to actively participate in their care. The presence of patient education materials, whether in print or online, indicates a commitment to patient empowerment.

The economic realities of the Maxton community also influence the "Arthritis Score." The affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage and medication costs, is a significant barrier for many residents. Practices that offer financial assistance programs, work with patients to navigate insurance complexities, and provide information about medication assistance programs can significantly improve the "Arthritis Score."

The responsiveness of the healthcare system to patient feedback is another important consideration. Practices that actively solicit patient feedback, respond to complaints, and make improvements based on patient input demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement. This responsiveness contributes to a positive patient experience and improves the overall quality of care.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Maxton, NC (ZIP code 28364) is thus a complex composite. It is likely influenced by the rural nature of the area, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialist referrals, the provision of patient education, the affordability of care, and the responsiveness of the healthcare system to patient feedback. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Maxton and other areas, and to visualize the distribution of resources and potential gaps in care, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable perspective on healthcare accessibility, allowing you to visualize physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points.