28516, Beaufort, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.61 percent of the residents in 28516 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 28516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,768 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28516 and Primary Care Availability in Beaufort

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment of the medical landscape within ZIP code 28516 (Beaufort, North Carolina) focusing on primary care availability and resources relevant to individuals managing arthritis. The "Arthritis Score" is a subjective metric, considering factors beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios. It incorporates elements like specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Beaufort, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise numbers fluctuate, publicly available data suggests a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, impacting timely diagnoses and treatment initiation for conditions like arthritis. The impact is particularly acute for those with chronic conditions who require regular monitoring and medication adjustments.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Assessing this requires considering factors like insurance acceptance (Medicare, Medicaid, and various private plans), appointment scheduling efficiency, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively tend to score higher in terms of accessibility and patient satisfaction, which are crucial in the context of arthritis management.

Specialist access is another critical factor. While PCPs are the first point of contact, rheumatologists, orthopedists, and physical therapists are essential for specialized arthritis care. The proximity of these specialists to ZIP code 28516 is a significant determinant of the "Arthritis Score." Travel time and ease of access to these specialists are critical considerations. A practice's ability to efficiently coordinate referrals to specialists is another positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher score. This is especially relevant for managing chronic conditions like arthritis, where regular monitoring and adjustments are often necessary.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in arthritis care, yet they are integral to patient well-being. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns, offer on-site counseling, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive a higher "Arthritis Score." This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of patients.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 28516 requires deeper investigation. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and assessing the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offering resources on arthritis management, self-care techniques, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment. These practices are more likely to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care.

The availability of physical therapy and rehabilitation services is also a key component of arthritis management. Access to qualified physical therapists who understand the specific needs of arthritis patients is crucial for maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving quality of life. Practices that have strong relationships with physical therapy providers or offer these services in-house contribute positively to the overall "Arthritis Score."

Furthermore, the integration of technology beyond telemedicine is essential. Practices that utilize patient portals for communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical records enhance patient convenience and engagement. The use of wearable technology for remote monitoring of activity levels and pain scores can also provide valuable data for personalized treatment plans.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the availability of support services, such as patient advocacy groups and community resources. Access to support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance programs can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with arthritis. Practices that are aware of and actively promote these resources demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is also important. The acceptance of various insurance plans (Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance) is a significant factor in determining access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more accessible to a diverse patient population.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP code 28516, and the primary care availability in Beaufort, NC, is a multifaceted assessment. While a precise numerical score is impossible without a comprehensive, in-depth review, the factors outlined above provide a framework for evaluating the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of arthritis care in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient support services all contribute to the overall score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the medical landscape in Beaufort, including the location of practices, specialists, and available resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and provide valuable insights for patients seeking arthritis care.