28411, Wilmington, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.04 percent of the residents in 28411 has some form of health insurance. 27.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.00 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 28411 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,637 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28411. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,615 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians in ZIP Code 28411, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis sufferers. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care. The geographic focus is Wilmington, North Carolina, aiming to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 28411 is paramount. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care. The availability of primary care physicians, particularly those with a demonstrated interest or specialization in rheumatology or musculoskeletal issues, directly impacts the quality of arthritis care. Research into publicly available data, such as state medical board records and insurance provider directories, can provide estimates of the physician-to-patient ratio. This data is essential for understanding the accessibility of primary care within the specified area.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of individual practices significantly influence the "Arthritis Score." Practices that offer comprehensive services, including on-site X-ray facilities, physical therapy, and access to specialized rheumatologists, receive higher scores. The presence of these resources streamlines care, reducing the need for multiple appointments and referrals, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic pain. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis treatments also contribute positively to the score, as they may offer access to cutting-edge therapies.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with limited mobility or who live in areas with limited transportation options. Practices that offer telemedicine options, including secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, receive higher scores. The ease of use and availability of telemedicine platforms are also important considerations. Does the practice offer user-friendly platforms? Are appointments readily available?

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or have established partnerships with mental health professionals, such as psychologists or therapists, receive higher scores. This integration ensures that patients have access to comprehensive care addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of their condition. Does the practice offer in-house counseling, or can they quickly refer patients to a trusted mental health professional?

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice reviews. Examining patient testimonials, online reviews, and professional affiliations can reveal practices with a strong reputation for providing high-quality arthritis care. Practices that actively engage with their patients, offer educational resources, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are likely to receive higher scores. Are physicians actively involved in patient education? Do they offer online resources or support groups?

The "Arthritis Score" for a particular physician or practice is ultimately a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. Practices with favorable physician-to-patient ratios, comprehensive services, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health resources will receive higher scores. Conversely, practices with limited resources, long wait times, and a lack of patient support may receive lower scores. The score should be seen as a dynamic indicator, subject to change as practices adapt and evolve.

Analyzing primary care availability in Wilmington as a whole requires considering the geographic distribution of physicians across the city. Are there underserved areas with limited access to primary care? Are there disparities in care based on socioeconomic factors or insurance coverage? Examining these factors provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape for arthritis sufferers. Analyzing data from public health departments and community organizations can help identify areas where access to care is limited.

The "Arthritis Score" analysis also needs to consider the availability of specialist care, such as rheumatologists. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for arthritis patients, access to rheumatologists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex cases. The proximity of rheumatology practices to primary care physicians and the ease of referral processes are important factors to consider. Are there rheumatologists in the area? Are referrals readily available?

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of support services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management clinics. These services play a crucial role in managing the symptoms of arthritis and improving the quality of life for patients. The accessibility and affordability of these services are important considerations. Are these services readily available? Are they covered by insurance?

The final "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 28411 and primary care availability in Wilmington is a complex assessment, incorporating multiple factors. It aims to provide a valuable tool for individuals seeking arthritis care, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare providers. This score is a snapshot in time, reflecting the current state of the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of physician locations, accessibility, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, North Carolina, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.