28457, Rocky Point, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28457, Rocky Point, North Carolina is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.75 percent of the residents in 28457 has some form of health insurance. 39.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.70 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 28457 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,305 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28457. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,254 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,980 health care providers accessible to residents in 28457, Rocky Point, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Rocky Point, NC (ZIP Code 28457)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of arthritis care within the Rocky Point, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28457) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) resources, and other relevant factors. The goal is to provide an “Arthritis Score” assessment, considering the specific needs of individuals managing arthritis. This score isn't a single number, but a composite evaluation based on several key indicators.

The foundation of good arthritis care lies in readily accessible primary care. In Rocky Point, assessing PCP availability is crucial. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Researching the specific ratio for 28457 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide this information. A low ratio, ideally below the national average, suggests better access to care.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there transportation challenges that hinder access for residents? The physical proximity of practices to residential areas, coupled with public transportation options, significantly impacts the Arthritis Score.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes not just treating the symptoms of arthritis, but also addressing the underlying causes and comorbidities. Look for practices that emphasize patient education, preventative care, and a multidisciplinary approach. This might involve incorporating physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling into their treatment plans. Practices that actively engage with patients, providing clear communication and empowering them to manage their condition, will score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better equipped to manage arthritis effectively. The Arthritis Score will reflect the extent to which local practices embrace telemedicine, considering factors like ease of use, technical support, and insurance coverage for virtual visits.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in arthritis care, but they are critical. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health professionals will contribute positively to the score. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is a key indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score considers the availability of specialized services. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to rheumatologists is vital for diagnosis and specialized treatment of arthritis. The proximity of rheumatology practices to Rocky Point, and the ease of referral from local PCPs, are important. The Arthritis Score will reflect the availability of these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process.

The quality of care also depends on the integration of technology. Electronic health records (EHRs) are essential for efficient communication between providers and for tracking patient progress. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing and patient access to their medical records, will score higher. The Arthritis Score will assess the technological infrastructure of local practices, considering factors like the use of EHRs, patient portals, and online appointment scheduling.

Insurance coverage is a critical determinant of access to care. The Arthritis Score must consider the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, will score higher. This ensures that patients, regardless of their insurance status, have access to the care they need.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of support services. This includes access to patient education materials, support groups, and resources for managing chronic pain. Practices that offer these services, or provide referrals to them, demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management. The Arthritis Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources.

In summary, the Arthritis Score for Rocky Point (28457) is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the proximity of specialists, the use of technology, insurance coverage, and the availability of support services. The score is a dynamic evaluation, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the specific needs of individuals managing arthritis. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available in the area and to identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, practices, and healthcare resources within the 28457 ZIP code, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population, providing valuable insights for patients seeking arthritis care.