28539, Hubert, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28539, Hubert, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.88 percent of the residents in 28539 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.23 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 28539 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,914 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28539. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,923 health care providers accessible to residents in 28539, Hubert, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Hubert, NC (ZIP Code 28539)

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care within Hubert, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28539), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) as a crucial entry point for arthritis diagnosis and management. We will assess key factors influencing the "Arthritis Score," including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components in providing comprehensive arthritis care.

The foundation of effective arthritis care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Hubert, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a diminished ability for early diagnosis and intervention, which are crucial for managing arthritis. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau provides a starting point. However, this data needs to be cross-referenced with insurance provider networks and patient testimonials to get a clear picture of access.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 28539 ZIP code is essential. We need to identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to arthritis care. This includes evaluating their staffing, the presence of rheumatologists or partnerships with rheumatology specialists, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services like X-rays and bloodwork. Practices that proactively screen for arthritis risk factors, such as family history and age, and that offer patient education materials, would score higher. Furthermore, the responsiveness of the practice to patient needs, evidenced by ease of appointment scheduling and communication, plays a significant role.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in modern healthcare, and its adoption within Hubert's primary care practices is an important consideration. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The availability of virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management can significantly enhance the convenience and accessibility of arthritis care. Practices that offer telemedicine options, and that integrate these technologies into their workflow seamlessly, would be considered to have a higher Arthritis Score.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the overall impact of arthritis on quality of life can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting, or through referrals to specialists, is a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health providers would be considered to have a higher score. This includes the availability of pain management specialists and support groups.

Beyond the immediate clinical aspects, the Arthritis Score also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. The presence of physical therapy services, occupational therapy, and access to specialized equipment are all important factors in managing arthritis. The availability of these resources within the community, or through referral networks, can significantly impact the quality of care. Moreover, the accessibility of prescription medications, including the availability of pharmacies within the community and the ease of medication refills, is also a critical consideration.

The evaluation of these factors requires a multi-faceted approach. Data collection involves examining publicly available information, such as the North Carolina Medical Board’s physician directory, and cross-referencing this data with information from insurance providers and patient reviews. Gathering information about telemedicine adoption rates requires contacting individual practices and surveying patients. Assessing mental health resources requires investigating the availability of counseling services and partnerships with mental health providers.

A comprehensive analysis would also include a review of patient testimonials and online reviews. These sources provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the responsiveness of the physicians, the quality of communication, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Practices with consistently positive reviews, and with a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, would naturally receive a higher Arthritis Score.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the specific types of arthritis prevalent in the community. The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other forms of arthritis may vary, and the availability of specialized treatments and expertise for each type is important. This includes the availability of specific medications, such as biologics, and the expertise of physicians in managing these conditions.

Ultimately, the Arthritis Score for Hubert, NC (ZIP Code 28539) is a reflection of the community's ability to provide accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered arthritis care. It is a dynamic measure that can change over time, reflecting improvements in healthcare infrastructure, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the patient population. The analysis is not just about the presence of doctors; it is about the quality of care they provide, their responsiveness to patient needs, and their commitment to addressing the complex challenges of living with arthritis.

The data collected and analyzed for this assessment can be visualized and explored using advanced mapping tools. To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, and to visualize the factors influencing the Arthritis Score, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis.

**Click here to explore the data with CartoChrome maps and visualize the healthcare landscape of Hubert, NC (ZIP Code 28539).**