28420, Ash, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 28420 has some form of health insurance. 51.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.97 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 28420 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28420. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 621 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,366 health care providers accessible to residents in 28420, Ash, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28420 and Primary Care Availability in Ash

This analysis delves into the availability of healthcare resources, specifically focusing on arthritis care within ZIP Code 28420, encompassing the town of Burgaw, North Carolina, and assessing primary care access in the neighboring community of Ash. The objective is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for individuals managing arthritis, including physician availability, practice quality, and access to supportive services.

The foundation of a strong arthritis care system rests on the presence of qualified physicians. In ZIP Code 28420, the availability of rheumatologists, the specialists dedicated to diagnosing and treating arthritis, is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a limited number of rheumatologists serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, less effective disease management. The analysis must consider the number of practicing rheumatologists within the zip code and the estimated population they serve. This ratio is then compared to national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of specialist care.

Beyond rheumatologists, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) plays a crucial role. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms. They can provide early diagnoses, initiate treatment plans, and refer patients to specialists when necessary. Assessing the PCP-to-patient ratio in both ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area is essential. A higher ratio, indicating a greater number of PCPs per capita, generally translates to improved access to care and potentially earlier intervention for arthritis sufferers. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs, their availability for new patients, and the average wait times for appointments.

The quality of care is another significant component of the Arthritis Score. This involves evaluating the practices of the physicians in the area. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive arthritis care. This includes factors like the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (such as X-rays and lab work), and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis treatment are also considered positively. The analysis will examine online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites to identify and highlight standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. The Arthritis Score will assess the extent to which physicians in ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area offer telemedicine services. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, medication management), the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, and the availability of technical support. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, as they demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Managing arthritis often involves more than just medical treatment. The condition can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral part of a comprehensive arthritis care system. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) within the ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain), and the availability of support groups or other mental health programs specifically tailored to individuals with arthritis. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans will be viewed favorably.

The location of healthcare facilities is also a crucial factor, especially in rural areas. The analysis will consider the geographical distribution of physicians and other healthcare providers within ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area. This includes assessing the proximity of practices to patient residences, the availability of transportation options, and the accessibility of facilities for individuals with disabilities. Practices located in easily accessible areas, with ample parking and accommodations for patients with mobility issues, will receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of ancillary services that support arthritis management. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to pain management specialists. Physical therapy can help patients improve their mobility and reduce pain, while occupational therapy can assist with adapting daily activities to accommodate physical limitations. Pain management specialists can provide advanced pain relief techniques and medication management. The Arthritis Score will assess the availability of these services within the local area and their integration into the overall care system.

Finally, the analysis will consider the cost of care. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing. Practices that are transparent about their fees and offer options for patients with limited financial resources will be viewed positively.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area will be a composite score, reflecting the availability, quality, and accessibility of arthritis-related healthcare resources. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, empowering individuals with arthritis to make informed decisions about their care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28420 and the Ash area, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, data-driven maps that can help you visualize healthcare access and make informed decisions about your care.