28472, Whiteville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.88 percent of the residents in 28472 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.72 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 28472 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28472. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 770 health care providers accessible to residents in 28472, Whiteville, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Whiteville, NC (ZIP Code 28472)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in Whiteville, NC (ZIP Code 28472), focusing on factors crucial for arthritis sufferers. The score considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all vital for effective arthritis management. This evaluation aims to guide individuals in navigating the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of arthritis care is access to a PCP. In Whiteville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the area often faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to higher patient loads for existing PCPs. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time per patient during consultations, impacting the quality of care, especially for complex conditions like arthritis.

Standout practices in the area are those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care and specialized services. Practices that integrate rheumatologists or have strong referral networks to rheumatology specialists are highly valued. Furthermore, practices that offer on-site physical therapy, occupational therapy, or access to pain management specialists significantly enhance the Arthritis Score. These integrated services streamline care, minimizing the need for multiple appointments and travel, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant area for improvement in Whiteville. While some practices may offer telehealth options, wider adoption could significantly benefit arthritis patients. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the burden of travel, particularly for those experiencing pain or limited mobility. The availability of virtual physical therapy sessions and educational resources further enhances the benefits of telemedicine, improving patient self-management and adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health resources, either through in-house therapists or established referral networks, receive a higher Arthritis Score. This integration allows for a holistic approach to care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.

Evaluating specific practices requires a deeper dive into their individual characteristics. Practices with electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between specialists and primary care providers are highly beneficial. EHRs streamline communication, reduce medical errors, and improve care coordination. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in patient education programs, providing resources on arthritis management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence, are highly regarded.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of ancillary services. Access to diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs, is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring arthritis progression. Practices with readily available access to these services, either on-site or through established partnerships, improve the patient experience and expedite diagnosis and treatment.

The physical accessibility of practices is another critical factor. Practices should be easily accessible for individuals with mobility limitations, with features like wheelchair accessibility, ample parking, and convenient access to public transportation. Practices that prioritize patient comfort and convenience receive a higher Arthritis Score.

The quality of communication between physicians and patients is paramount. Practices that foster open communication, actively listen to patient concerns, and provide clear and concise explanations of treatment plans are highly valued. Practices that utilize patient portals for secure communication and access to medical records enhance patient engagement and improve care coordination.

The cost of care is also a significant consideration. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer transparent pricing are highly beneficial. Practices that provide information on financial assistance programs and medication costs further support patient access to care.

The overall Arthritis Score for primary care in Whiteville, NC (28472) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area may face challenges in physician availability, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, integrate telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources are likely to receive higher scores. Further research into individual practice characteristics is essential for making informed healthcare decisions. The availability of rheumatology specialists and the strength of referral networks are crucial components of the overall score.

The ability to easily locate and compare these factors is crucial for patients. Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Access to detailed information about local practices, including their services, accessibility, and patient reviews, empowers individuals to make informed choices.

Understanding the specific needs of arthritis patients is essential for creating a supportive healthcare environment. Addressing the challenges of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources is crucial for improving the Arthritis Score and enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with this condition.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and service availability, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative platform for navigating the healthcare landscape in Whiteville and beyond.