28501, Kinston, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28501 has some form of health insurance. 59.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.47 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 28501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses the landscape of arthritis care in ZIP Code 28501, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources in Kinston, North Carolina. We will evaluate the provision of care, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, noteworthy practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive arthritis management.

The foundation of effective arthritis care in Kinston begins with the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside information from the American Medical Association, can be used to determine this ratio. A thorough analysis would compare the ratio in 28501 to state and national averages, highlighting any disparities.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is important. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving underserved pockets? Do they accept various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are often critical for arthritis patients? This information is vital in evaluating accessibility.

Several primary care practices in Kinston warrant closer examination. We need to identify those that demonstrate excellence in arthritis care. Key indicators include the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray facilities, which streamlines the diagnostic process. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals are generally better positioned to provide coordinated care. EHRs facilitate communication between specialists, allow for easier access to medical records, and often enable patients to manage appointments and medication refills online.

The adoption of evidence-based treatment guidelines is another essential aspect. Do the practices adhere to recommendations from organizations like the American College of Rheumatology? Do they offer patient education programs to empower individuals to manage their condition effectively? These programs might cover topics such as exercise, nutrition, and medication management.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. In 28501, we need to assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices. Do physicians offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or medication adjustments? Are they equipped to monitor patient progress remotely through wearable devices or remote monitoring systems? The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the quality of life for arthritis patients.

The link between arthritis and mental health is undeniable. Chronic pain, limitations in physical function, and the overall burden of the disease can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals, such as psychologists or therapists, or referrals to external mental health providers. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care are more likely to identify and address these issues proactively.

Furthermore, collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, such as rheumatologists, is essential. Do primary care physicians have established referral pathways to rheumatologists? Are they actively involved in coordinating care with these specialists? Effective communication and collaboration between healthcare providers are vital for ensuring that patients receive the appropriate level of care.

A detailed analysis would also consider patient satisfaction. Reviews from patients on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Are patients satisfied with the care they receive? Do they feel heard and understood by their physicians? Are they able to easily access appointments and communicate with their care team?

The infrastructure of the healthcare system also plays a role. The presence of physical therapy centers, pharmacies, and other support services within the ZIP code contributes to the overall quality of care. Easy access to these services can significantly improve the patient experience.

Finally, the presence of community resources, such as support groups or educational programs, can empower patients to manage their condition effectively. These resources provide opportunities for patients to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and to learn from each other.

The overall assessment of arthritis care in 28501 requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient satisfaction. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system.

To gain a visual understanding of physician locations, primary care availability, and related resources in Kinston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28501), consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent the data points discussed in this analysis, allowing for a more intuitive and accessible understanding of the healthcare landscape.