28470, Shallotte, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28470, Shallotte, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 28470 has some form of health insurance. 50.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.26 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 28470 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,564 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28470. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,474 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,625 health care providers accessible to residents in 28470, Shallotte, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Shallotte, North Carolina (ZIP code 28470), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

Shallotte, a coastal town, experiences fluctuations in its population, particularly during tourist seasons. This impacts healthcare demands and resource allocation. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing real-time data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. A general estimate, however, indicates that the area might face challenges in meeting the needs of its residents, particularly those with chronic conditions like arthritis, due to the influx of seasonal visitors and the potential for an aging population. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the basic metrics. Reputation, patient reviews, and the range of services offered are all critical. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including a focus on managing chronic pain and offering comprehensive treatment plans, are highly valuable. The availability of on-site physical therapy, rheumatology referrals, and educational resources for patients are also key indicators of quality. Specific practices would need to be identified through detailed research. Publicly available information, such as online reviews and practice websites, can offer preliminary insights. However, a deeper dive, potentially involving patient surveys or direct contact with practices, would be necessary for a definitive ranking.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel time, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of chronic conditions. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing whether practices offer virtual appointments, online patient portals, and the use of remote monitoring devices. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care for arthritis patients.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals or offer integrated mental health services are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The lack of such resources can significantly hinder a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively.

The geographical distribution of healthcare providers within the 28470 ZIP code is also important. Patients residing in more remote areas may face greater challenges in accessing care. The availability of transportation, public or private, can significantly impact access. Practices located centrally, with convenient access to public transportation, can improve accessibility. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can cater to a wider range of patients.

The quality of arthritis care extends beyond the individual physician. The presence of a strong network of specialists, including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists, is crucial. Practices that have established referral pathways and collaborative relationships with these specialists can provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. The ability to quickly access specialized services can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Another factor is insurance acceptance. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more accessible to a broader population. This is particularly important for patients with arthritis, who may have limited financial resources. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or payment plans can also improve accessibility.

The physical environment of a medical practice can also impact patient experience. Practices that are accessible to individuals with mobility limitations, with features like ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms, are more patient-friendly. The availability of ample parking and a comfortable waiting area can also improve the overall experience.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. Practices that utilize EHRs can improve care coordination, reduce medical errors, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers. EHRs also enable patients to access their medical records online, which can improve their engagement in their own care.

Continuity of care is also important. Patients who see the same physician over time are more likely to develop a strong relationship and receive more personalized care. Practices that prioritize continuity of care, such as assigning patients to a primary care physician and providing consistent follow-up appointments, can improve patient outcomes.

The evaluation of primary care availability and quality in Shallotte requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. It also involves considering geographical distribution, the presence of a strong network of specialists, insurance acceptance, the physical environment of practices, the use of EHRs, and the importance of continuity of care.

For a more detailed and interactive analysis, including a visual representation of healthcare resources in Shallotte, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and user-friendly way to visualize physician locations, practice information, and other relevant data.