28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 28374 has some form of health insurance. 43.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.80 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 28374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,970 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28374 and Primary Care Availability in Pinehurst**

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28374, encompassing Pinehurst, North Carolina, with a specific focus on arthritis care and primary care accessibility. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors significantly impacting the quality of care for individuals managing arthritis and other chronic conditions.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of physicians. In Pinehurst (28374), the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment plans. The availability of rheumatologists, specialists in arthritis and related conditions, is particularly crucial. The concentration of rheumatologists in the area, compared to the general population, directly impacts access to specialized care. A shortage necessitates patients seeking care outside the immediate vicinity, adding travel burdens and potentially disrupting continuity of care.

Standout practices in Pinehurst are identified by examining patient reviews, physician credentials, and the range of services offered. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, including personalized treatment plans and a focus on patient education, are highly valued. Those employing innovative approaches, such as early intervention programs for arthritis or integrated care models that combine primary care with specialized services, are also considered exemplary. The presence of certified rheumatologists, coupled with support staff trained in arthritis management, significantly enhances a practice’s standing.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, especially for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Its adoption in Pinehurst is evaluated based on the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing care workflows. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater flexibility for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine also facilitates more frequent check-ins and monitoring, which can be crucial for managing arthritis symptoms and preventing disease progression.

The connection between mental health and chronic conditions like arthritis is well-established. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the emotional toll of managing a debilitating illness can significantly impact mental well-being. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to patient care. This integration facilitates early identification and treatment of mental health issues, improving overall patient outcomes.

The assessment of arthritis care in Pinehurst also considers the availability of ancillary services. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to specialized equipment are vital for managing arthritis symptoms and improving quality of life. Practices that offer these services on-site or have established referral networks demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. The availability of support groups and patient education programs further enhances the support system for individuals with arthritis.

The evaluation also considers the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve care coordination, reduce medication errors, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers. The ability to share patient information seamlessly across different specialties and healthcare settings is crucial for managing complex conditions like arthritis. The implementation of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers, further enhances patient engagement and empowerment.

The analysis of primary care availability in Pinehurst extends beyond physician-to-patient ratios. It also considers the accessibility of primary care services, including appointment availability, office hours, and insurance acceptance. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and accept a wide range of insurance plans increase access to care. The availability of same-day appointments for urgent needs is also a critical factor.

The integration of technology in primary care is also assessed. Practices that utilize patient portals, offer online appointment scheduling, and provide access to patient education materials are considered to be more patient-friendly and efficient. The use of technology can improve communication, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience.

The overall Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 28374 is determined by weighing these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare landscape characterized by a sufficient number of physicians, particularly rheumatologists, a commitment to patient-centered care, the effective use of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of ancillary services. A lower score indicates areas for improvement, such as a shortage of specialists, limited access to telemedicine, or a lack of mental health resources.

The assessment process involves gathering data from various sources, including public health records, physician directories, patient reviews, and practice websites. This data is analyzed to identify trends, patterns, and areas of strength and weakness within the healthcare landscape. The analysis also considers the specific needs of individuals with arthritis, such as access to specialized care, pain management services, and support groups.

The final Arthritis Score is a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment in Pinehurst, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The goal is to identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for individuals with arthritis and other chronic conditions. The score serves as a benchmark for assessing the progress of healthcare initiatives and for making informed decisions about healthcare resources.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Pinehurst and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to care, we invite you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to explore the healthcare data in detail.