28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.95 percent of the residents in 28429 has some form of health insurance. 37.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.83 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 28429 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,513 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28429. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,649 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,693 health care providers accessible to residents in 28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28429 and Primary Care Availability in Castle Hayne**

Analyzing healthcare access and resources within ZIP Code 28429, encompassing Castle Hayne, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, focused on arthritis care, considers factors influencing patient experience, including physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and support services. The goal is to provide an Arthritis Score assessment reflecting the overall healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this specific area.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Castle Hayne, a relatively small community, faces challenges common to rural areas: lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to more urban centers. While precise figures fluctuate, it's reasonable to assume a ratio potentially exceeding the national average. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population, increasing wait times for appointments and potentially limiting the ability to establish a strong patient-physician relationship, critical for chronic conditions like arthritis.

The availability of specialized care, particularly rheumatologists, is another crucial factor. Rheumatologists are medical doctors specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases, including various forms of arthritis. The absence of a rheumatologist within the immediate ZIP Code necessitates travel for specialized consultations and treatments. This travel burden can be significant, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those experiencing pain flares. Consequently, this directly impacts the Arthritis Score, as access to specialized care is a key component of effective arthritis management.

Within the primary care practices in and around 28429, evaluating practice quality is paramount. This involves assessing factors such as physician experience, patient reviews, and the availability of ancillary services. Practices with experienced physicians, particularly those with a demonstrated interest or expertise in musculoskeletal conditions, would score higher. Patient reviews, reflecting satisfaction with communication, treatment plans, and overall care, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The presence of on-site services, such as physical therapy or X-ray facilities, streamlines care and improves the Arthritis Score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations or remote monitoring, enhance accessibility and convenience. This is particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who may have difficulty traveling for routine follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients and their physicians, improving medication management and early intervention for symptom flares. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would contribute positively to the Arthritis Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic disease management, but their importance is undeniable. Arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to patient care. This integration is crucial for improving the overall quality of life for arthritis patients and positively influences the Arthritis Score.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This may involve physicians with specialized training or experience in rheumatology, practices with strong patient satisfaction ratings, or those actively embracing telemedicine and mental health integration. Identifying these practices helps patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and contributes to a higher Arthritis Score.

The assessment of the Arthritis Score must consider the overall healthcare ecosystem. This includes factors beyond the immediate ZIP Code, such as access to hospitals, pharmacies, and support groups. The proximity of a hospital with a dedicated rheumatology department or a pharmacy specializing in arthritis medications significantly improves the Arthritis Score. The availability of local support groups, offering peer support and educational resources, also enhances the patient experience and contributes to a higher score.

The Arthritis Score is not a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, practice quality, technological advancements, and the availability of support services. This ongoing assessment ensures that the Arthritis Score remains a relevant and reliable tool for patients seeking to navigate the healthcare system in Castle Hayne.

The ultimate aim of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available to arthritis patients in ZIP Code 28429. By considering physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the overall healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. The Arthritis Score reflects the quality of care and the ease of access for individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographical area.

The healthcare landscape is constantly changing. Staying informed about the availability of resources and the quality of care is essential for individuals managing arthritis.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Castle Hayne and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, and support services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify healthcare resources and plan your healthcare journey more effectively.