28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.80 percent of the residents in 28540 has some form of health insurance. 34.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.61 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 28540 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,917 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28540. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,752 health care providers accessible to residents in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28540) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately assigning an "Arthritis Score" reflective of the overall accessibility and comprehensiveness of care available to residents.

Jacksonville, a city serving as the home of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, experiences fluctuating population dynamics, impacting healthcare demand. The presence of a significant military population, coupled with the general demographic trends of an aging population, suggests a notable need for arthritis care. Therefore, the availability of rheumatologists and primary care physicians capable of managing arthritis is crucial.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A low ratio, signifying fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Data analysis should compare the number of rheumatologists and primary care physicians practicing within ZIP Code 28540 to the estimated population. This comparison reveals the potential strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure and identifies areas where the system might be under-resourced.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors beyond simple physician numbers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to specialized arthritis care, such as offering comprehensive diagnostic services, physical therapy, and access to clinical trials, warrant recognition. Examining patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the availability of specialized equipment (e.g., advanced imaging) provides a more nuanced understanding of the quality of care offered. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they have streamlined appointment scheduling? These factors significantly influence a patient's experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. Evaluating the extent to which physicians in Jacksonville utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services offered remotely, is essential. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease of use of the technology for both patients and providers.

The integration of mental health resources within arthritis care is increasingly recognized as vital. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic pain conditions, is crucial. Do practices offer integrated mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers? This integration contributes significantly to a holistic approach to patient care.

Based on these factors, an "Arthritis Score" can be assigned. This score would be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The score would range from low to high, with a higher score indicating greater accessibility, comprehensiveness, and quality of arthritis care. A low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, such as long wait times, limited specialized services, and a lack of integrated mental health support.

Analyzing the specific practices and their offerings within Jacksonville requires detailed investigation. Are there any rheumatology practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews and demonstrate a commitment to cutting-edge treatment options? Are primary care physicians well-versed in the management of arthritis, or do they primarily rely on referrals to specialists? The availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services within the area is also a factor. These services are crucial for managing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with arthritis.

Further analysis should consider the insurance landscape. Does the area have a good mix of providers that accept the various insurance types available? This is particularly important given the significant military population, which may have specific insurance coverage requirements. The acceptance of Medicare and Medicaid, as well as private insurance plans, directly impacts access to care for a wide range of residents.

The geographic distribution of healthcare providers within ZIP Code 28540 is another important consideration. Are providers clustered in a specific area, or are they distributed more evenly throughout the city? This spatial analysis can reveal potential healthcare deserts, where residents may face significant travel distances to access care. Public transportation options and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities also influence access.

In conclusion, assessing the arthritis care landscape in Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The resulting "Arthritis Score" provides a valuable snapshot of the overall healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and informing efforts to improve patient access and outcomes. This analysis will help residents better understand the resources available to them and to advocate for improved healthcare access.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data points within Jacksonville, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and make informed decisions.