28367, Norman, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28367, Norman, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.74 percent of the residents in 28367 has some form of health insurance. 52.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.26 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 28367 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 74 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28367. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,631 health care providers accessible to residents in 28367, Norman, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28367 and Norman Primary Care

This analysis assesses the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP Code 28367, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related factors. The analysis also considers the primary care landscape in Norman, Oklahoma, for comparative purposes. An "Arthritis Score" is implied, though not explicitly calculated, based on factors influencing care access and quality.

ZIP Code 28367, likely representing a specific geographical area in North Carolina, presents unique challenges and opportunities in arthritis care. The foundation of effective arthritis management often lies within the primary care setting. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for patients experiencing joint pain, stiffness, and other arthritis symptoms. Their ability to accurately diagnose, initiate treatment, and refer to specialists is crucial. Therefore, the availability and quality of PCPs directly impact the Arthritis Score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This can hinder thorough evaluations and personalized care plans. Data on the PCP-to-patient ratio in 28367 is critical. Public health databases and local medical societies often provide this information. A low ratio would positively influence the Arthritis Score, suggesting better access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This encompasses the expertise of the physicians, the availability of diagnostic tools within the practice, and the practice’s commitment to patient education and chronic disease management. Practices that proactively screen for arthritis risk factors, offer patient education materials, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress would likely contribute to a higher Arthritis Score.

Standout practices in 28367 would be those demonstrating excellence in arthritis-related care. This might include practices with physicians who have a particular interest in rheumatology, offer extended appointment times, or actively participate in community outreach programs focused on arthritis awareness. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices is essential for improving the overall Arthritis Score. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and physician profiles can help identify these high-performing clinics.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices in 28367 that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would likely contribute positively to the Arthritis Score, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an integral part of arthritis care. Arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration would positively influence the Arthritis Score, reflecting a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

Comparing the primary care landscape in 28367 to that of Norman, Oklahoma, offers valuable insights. Norman, a city with a larger population and potentially different healthcare infrastructure, might provide a contrasting perspective. Analyzing the PCP-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized arthritis clinics, and the adoption of telemedicine in Norman can help benchmark the performance of 28367. This comparative analysis can highlight areas where 28367 excels and areas where improvements are needed.

The availability of rheumatologists, specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, is also a crucial factor. While PCPs are the first line of defense, rheumatologists provide specialized expertise and manage complex cases. The proximity of rheumatologists and the ease of referral from PCPs significantly impact the Arthritis Score.

Access to physical therapy and occupational therapy is also critical. These therapies can help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and maintain their independence. Practices that readily refer patients to these services and offer on-site therapy options would enhance the Arthritis Score.

In conclusion, assessing the Arthritis Score for 28367 requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates evaluating PCP availability, physician quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to specialized care. Comparing these factors to the primary care landscape in Norman, Oklahoma, provides valuable context. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating data from various sources, is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of 28367 have access to high-quality arthritis care.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of 28367 and Norman? Explore the power of geographic data and uncover valuable insights with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to map physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource distribution, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and availability. Visit CartoChrome to begin your exploration today.