28391, Stedman, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.82 percent of the residents in 28391 has some form of health insurance. 31.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.90 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 28391 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,428 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28391. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 839 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 697 health care providers accessible to residents in 28391, Stedman, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28391 & Primary Care Availability in Stedman

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for medical resources within ZIP code 28391, specifically focusing on primary care availability and related factors in the town of Stedman, North Carolina. The "Arthritis Score" is a hypothetical metric, reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing arthritis, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice features, telemedicine integration, and mental health support.

The foundation of a strong "Arthritis Score" lies in readily accessible primary care. Stedman, a small community within 28391, presents a unique challenge. Rural areas often face shortages of primary care physicians, potentially impacting the ability of residents to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and referrals to specialists like rheumatologists. A low physician-to-patient ratio negatively impacts the "Arthritis Score," as it can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into physician density, helping to gauge the availability of primary care providers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences the "Arthritis Score." Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, with a focus on chronic disease management, tend to score higher. This includes elements such as: dedicated staff trained in arthritis care, access to on-site diagnostic services (like X-rays), and a commitment to patient education. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, allowing for easier communication and access to medical information, also contribute positively to the score. The presence of a dedicated care coordinator to assist patients with navigating the healthcare system and managing their arthritis would significantly improve the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component of the "Arthritis Score," particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients in Stedman to connect with their primary care physicians and specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing education about arthritis. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure online communication channels will receive a higher score. The availability of telemedicine also contributes to the overall accessibility of care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the availability of mental health resources. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Primary care practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, either directly or through referrals, improve the overall "Arthritis Score." This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as resources for managing chronic pain and coping with the emotional challenges of living with arthritis. The presence of support groups or patient education programs further enhances the score.

Identifying standout practices within 28391 requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. This involves gathering information on the services offered, the training and experience of the medical staff, and patient reviews. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to arthritis care, with specialized programs or dedicated staff, would likely receive a higher score. The use of patient satisfaction surveys and the presence of accreditations or certifications related to chronic disease management can also indicate a higher quality of care.

Analyzing the "Arthritis Score" requires considering the demographic makeup of Stedman and the surrounding areas. Factors like the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of arthritis, and socioeconomic factors can influence the demand for healthcare services. Understanding these demographics helps to assess the adequacy of the existing resources and identify potential areas for improvement. For example, if the population is aging, the demand for arthritis care is likely to increase, and the "Arthritis Score" would need to reflect the ability of the healthcare system to meet this growing need.

To improve the "Arthritis Score" in Stedman, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more primary care physicians to address the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Encouraging existing practices to adopt telemedicine and integrate mental health services is equally important. Promoting patient education and awareness programs about arthritis can empower individuals to manage their condition more effectively. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can create a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare ecosystem.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for 28391 and the primary care availability in Stedman is a dynamic metric. It is subject to change based on various factors, including healthcare policy changes, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of the community. Regular assessment and updates are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the accessibility and quality of care for individuals with arthritis.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape within 28391, and specifically in Stedman, requires a comprehensive and data-driven approach. The "Arthritis Score" framework offers a valuable tool for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the existing resources and identifying areas for improvement. By considering the factors discussed above, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members can work together to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for individuals living with arthritis.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of 28391 and Stedman? Explore the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and resource availability with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive and informative way to understand the healthcare ecosystem, empowering you to make informed decisions and advocate for improved access to care.