28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.73 percent of the residents in 28445 has some form of health insurance. 29.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.14 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 28445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,568 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 781 health care providers accessible to residents in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28445 & Primary Care Availability in Holly Ridge

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Holly Ridge, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28445), requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Arthritis Score," while not a formal medical metric, will serve as an analytical framework, evaluating factors crucial for arthritis sufferers and, by extension, all patients seeking primary care. This score will consider physician access, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all vital for comprehensive patient care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios & Access Challenges:**

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. In 28445, a rural and rapidly growing area, this ratio is likely a significant factor. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other sources would reveal the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code. Comparing this to the estimated population of Holly Ridge and the surrounding areas gives a preliminary indication of access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis, who require regular check-ups and management.

Further analysis would delve into appointment wait times. Surveys of local residents, coupled with data from healthcare scheduling platforms, could provide insights into the average time it takes to see a primary care physician. Long wait times can exacerbate the pain and functional limitations associated with arthritis, making prompt access to care a critical element of the "Arthritis Score." The proximity of specialists, such as rheumatologists, is also vital. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability to quickly access specialized care is an important consideration for patients with arthritis. The availability of transportation, particularly for those with mobility limitations, further impacts access.

**Standout Practices & Quality of Care:**

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care offered by primary care practices is paramount. The "Arthritis Score" must evaluate various aspects of practice quality. Patient reviews, readily available online through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, offer a valuable, albeit subjective, perspective. Analyzing these reviews for mentions of physician empathy, communication skills, and the thoroughness of examinations can provide insights into the patient experience.

Accreditation status of the practices is another critical factor. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission indicates adherence to specific quality standards and best practices. Furthermore, examining the practices' commitment to evidence-based medicine, such as the use of standardized treatment protocols for arthritis, is crucial. This information can be gleaned from practice websites, brochures, and, in some cases, publicly available data.

The availability of ancillary services within the primary care practices also enhances the "Arthritis Score." On-site physical therapy, X-ray facilities, and laboratory services streamline care and reduce the need for patients to travel to multiple locations. Practices that offer these services demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and convenient care.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The "Arthritis Score" must assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 28445. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals score higher. Telemedicine can be a game-changer for arthritis patients, enabling them to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, and allowing for more frequent monitoring of their condition.

The ease of use and accessibility of telemedicine platforms are also important. Are the platforms user-friendly? Are they accessible to patients with limited technological skills or those who may not have reliable internet access? Practices that provide technical support and offer alternative communication methods, such as phone consultations, further enhance their "Arthritis Score."

**Mental Health Resources & Holistic Care:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that often has a significant impact on mental health. The "Arthritis Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care ecosystem. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, score higher. This integrated approach to care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a crucial factor. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others who understand their challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of resources for managing chronic pain, such as pain management specialists or educational programs, further enhances the "Arthritis Score."

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the "Arthritis Score" for primary care in 28445 reveals a complex picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, appointment wait times, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability all contribute to the overall score. While a precise numerical score requires detailed data collection and analysis, the framework presented here provides a roadmap for evaluating the accessibility and quality of primary care services for arthritis sufferers and the wider community in Holly Ridge. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and accessibility data within 28445, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.