28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 28511 has some form of health insurance. 52.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.24 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 28511 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28511. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 59 health care providers accessible to residents in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: 28511 & Atlantic Primary Care

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP Code 28511 (likely a specific area in North Carolina) and a broader perspective on primary care access in the Atlantic region, considering factors relevant to arthritis patients. The score, while not a formal, standardized metric, reflects an evaluation of key indicators influencing the care experience, with a focus on factors critical for managing arthritis. These include physician accessibility, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and the overall healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of a good arthritis management plan is a strong relationship with a primary care physician. This individual often serves as the initial point of contact, coordinating care, and providing crucial ongoing support. In 28511, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Analyzing publicly available data, such as those from the US Department of Health & Human Services, can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP Code and the estimated patient population. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access to care. However, this is just one piece of the puzzle.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are primary care practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more remote locations within 28511? Examining the geographical distribution of practices, along with information on transportation options, is essential. This includes considering public transportation availability and the distance patients must travel to reach a clinic. Furthermore, the acceptance of various insurance plans is a key factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance options, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more accessible to a broader population, particularly those with chronic conditions like arthritis.

Standout practices within 28511, if any, should be identified. This requires researching individual practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially contacting the practices directly. Key indicators of a strong practice include: a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, a focus on preventative health measures, and a team approach involving nurses, medical assistants, and potentially physical therapists or other specialists. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those related to chronic disease management, are particularly noteworthy.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Arthritis Score. The ability to access virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or medication management, can greatly improve convenience and reduce the burden on patients, especially those with mobility limitations. Researching which practices in 28511 offer telemedicine services, and the types of services offered (e.g., video visits, secure messaging), is crucial. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform and the availability of technical support are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals is a key indicator. Practices that offer on-site behavioral health specialists or have strong referral networks to mental health providers are likely to provide more comprehensive care.

Moving to the broader Atlantic region, primary care availability needs to be assessed. This includes analyzing the overall physician-to-population ratio, considering the geographic distribution of practices, and evaluating the accessibility of care for rural populations. The presence of hospitals and specialty clinics in the area also contributes to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

The availability of specialized arthritis care, such as rheumatologists, is indirectly linked to primary care availability. Patients with arthritis often require referrals to rheumatologists for diagnosis and treatment. A robust primary care system that facilitates timely referrals to specialists is a positive indicator. The average wait times for appointments with rheumatologists in the Atlantic region should be considered, as long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, can also improve the Arthritis Score. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication between providers, patient portals for accessing medical information and scheduling appointments, and the use of remote monitoring devices to track patient progress. Practices that embrace technology to improve patient care are generally better positioned to provide comprehensive and efficient services.

The overall quality of care is also a factor. This is challenging to assess directly but can be inferred from patient reviews, practice accreditation status, and participation in quality improvement programs. Patient satisfaction surveys and feedback mechanisms can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for 28511 and the Atlantic region is not a single number but a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. Physician accessibility, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem all contribute to the quality of care available to arthritis patients. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness and to highlight opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28511 and the Atlantic region, including the geographical distribution of primary care practices, access to specialists, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visualization of the data discussed in this analysis, helping you to understand the healthcare landscape more effectively and make informed decisions about your care.