28371, Parkton, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.34 percent of the residents in 28371 has some form of health insurance. 39.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.94 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 28371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,286 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28371. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 670 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,362 health care providers accessible to residents in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina.

The analysis will focus on evaluating the quality of arthritis care and primary care access within ZIP code 28371, encompassing the town of Parkton, North Carolina, and the surrounding area. This assessment will involve examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining the overall quality of care for individuals managing arthritis and other primary care needs.

Parkton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the accessibility of specialized care, including rheumatology, which is essential for arthritis management. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, reduced wait times, and a higher likelihood of receiving timely diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio can lead to overburdened physicians, potentially affecting the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28371 requires diligent investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards can provide insights. However, this information may not always reflect the actual availability of physicians, considering factors like physician retirement, relocation, or changes in practice. The analysis should also consider the presence of any large healthcare systems or hospitals in the area that could significantly impact physician availability and access to specialized services.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys offer valuable perspectives on the quality of care, the communication skills of physicians, and the overall patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews, particularly those mentioning expertise in arthritis management, are strong candidates. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, preventive care, and chronic disease management often provide superior care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of healthcare quality. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, allowing patients to manage their arthritis symptoms and receive follow-up care from the comfort of their homes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and innovation. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered, the ease of use, and the reimbursement policies of local insurance providers.

The availability of mental health resources is also a vital component of comprehensive arthritis care. Arthritis can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the ease of access to these services for patients.

To assess the quality of arthritis care, the analysis should consider the availability of rheumatologists or specialists who focus on arthritis. If rheumatologists are not available within the ZIP code, the analysis should evaluate the ease of access to rheumatology services in neighboring areas. The analysis should also assess the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines for arthritis, including the use of medications, physical therapy, and other interventions.

The analysis should also consider the presence of support groups or educational programs for individuals with arthritis. These resources can provide valuable support and information, empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

The overall quality of primary care availability in Parkton directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely diagnosis and treatment for arthritis. A well-functioning primary care system acts as a gateway to specialized care, including rheumatology. Primary care physicians can screen for arthritis symptoms, refer patients to specialists, and provide ongoing management of chronic conditions.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Factors such as income, insurance coverage, and transportation can significantly affect an individual's ability to receive care. The analysis should assess the availability of resources to address these barriers, such as financial assistance programs, transportation services, and language interpretation services.

The analysis should also consider the impact of insurance coverage on healthcare access. The availability of health insurance, particularly coverage for arthritis medications and specialized services, is crucial for ensuring that individuals can receive the care they need. The analysis should assess the acceptance of different insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of arthritis care and primary care access in 28371 requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of primary care all play crucial roles. This analysis seeks to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Parkton, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding these nuances empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and facilitates the development of strategies to enhance the quality of care for all residents.

For a visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice demographics, and access to care indicators, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools can provide a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility within 28371.