28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 28465 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 28465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Oak Island, NC (ZIP Code 28465)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services in Oak Island, North Carolina (ZIP code 28465), with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight noteworthy practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Arthritis Score" for the area. This score reflects the accessibility and support available to patients navigating the challenges of arthritis.

The foundation of any good healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Oak Island, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, a general assessment indicates a potential challenge. The area, being a popular retirement and vacation destination, experiences seasonal population shifts, which can strain healthcare resources. This fluctuating demand necessitates a careful consideration of the ratio. A higher ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to patient care, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of individual practices is paramount. Several practices within or serving ZIP code 28465 stand out. These practices often distinguish themselves through several key elements. Patient reviews, online presence, and the availability of specialized services are all important considerations. Does a practice offer extended hours to accommodate patient schedules? Does it have dedicated staff trained in the management of chronic conditions? Does it readily accept insurance plans common in the area? These factors, along with the general attitude of the staff, are crucial for patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the "Arthritis Score." The ability to access healthcare remotely is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited physical access to medical facilities. Telemedicine can facilitate regular check-ins, medication management, and even physical therapy consultations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice's overall workflow are all crucial considerations.

The management of arthritis often involves more than just physical treatment. The chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and lifestyle adjustments associated with arthritis can significantly impact mental health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of the "Arthritis Score." This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in chronic pain management and the psychological impact of chronic illness. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, provide referrals to mental health professionals, or offer in-house counseling services receive a higher score. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is essential for holistic patient care.

Furthermore, consider the availability of ancillary services. Does the area offer access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rheumatology specialists? The proximity of these services is important. The existence of support groups, such as those affiliated with the Arthritis Foundation, also contributes to the overall score. These groups provide valuable peer support, education, and resources for patients.

The "Arthritis Score" for Oak Island (28465) is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment based on the factors mentioned above. A higher score indicates a more supportive environment for arthritis patients, characterized by a good physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine, and expanding mental health services.

The score also considers the overall accessibility of healthcare. This includes factors such as transportation options, the availability of accessible facilities, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The physical environment of medical facilities is also important. Are they easily accessible for individuals with mobility limitations? Are there ample parking spaces? These seemingly small details can significantly impact a patient's experience.

Finally, the score is influenced by the community's overall health literacy. Are there readily available educational resources about arthritis? Does the community actively promote healthy lifestyles, such as exercise and nutrition? A community that is well-informed and supportive of individuals with arthritis will naturally contribute to a higher "Arthritis Score."

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for Oak Island (28465) is a multi-faceted assessment that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare services for individuals with arthritis. It considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

To visualize and analyze the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice ratings, and the availability of support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographical data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oak Island and surrounding areas.