28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.55 percent of the residents in 28546 has some form of health insurance. 32.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.04 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 28546 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,800 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28546. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28546)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28546) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, focusing on the factors impacting an "Arthritis Score," considers physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis management. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking arthritis care in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis and treatment. In Jacksonville, the availability of rheumatologists is a primary concern. While primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact, their specialized knowledge in arthritis management is limited. Therefore, the presence of rheumatologists, coupled with their patient load, directly impacts the "Arthritis Score." Assessing the number of practicing rheumatologists within the 28546 ZIP code, alongside the estimated population with arthritis, provides a baseline understanding of access. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, when combined, offer a starting point for this calculation.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the characteristics of local practices play a vital role. Are there any standout practices in Jacksonville? Practices with a reputation for excellence in arthritis care, known for their experienced physicians, advanced treatment options, and patient-centered approach, would positively influence the "Arthritis Score." Researching patient reviews, online ratings, and professional recognitions can help identify these practices. Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRIs) within the same practice or nearby, streamlines the care process and improves the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Evaluating the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, the types of platforms used, and the ease of access for patients are essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing flexible and convenient care options, would contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score." This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health resources is also crucial. Chronic pain, a hallmark of many forms of arthritis, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and access to psychiatrists, is an integral part of comprehensive arthritis care. Assessing the proximity of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the integration of mental health services within the primary care or rheumatology practices would influence the "Arthritis Score." This includes evaluating the availability of resources that address the psychological impact of chronic pain and provide support for patients' emotional well-being.

Primary care availability in Jacksonville is also a key factor. While PCPs may not specialize in arthritis, they are often the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The efficiency and accessibility of primary care services can impact the overall patient journey. This includes assessing the wait times for appointments, the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments, and the ease of referral to specialists. A robust primary care system, with readily accessible services, would contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score" by facilitating early diagnosis and prompt referral to rheumatologists when necessary.

Furthermore, the coordination of care between primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and other specialists is essential. Effective communication and collaboration among healthcare providers ensure that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information, the frequency of communication between providers, and the existence of care coordination programs would impact the "Arthritis Score." Practices that prioritize care coordination, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration, would provide a higher quality of care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Arthritis Score" for Jacksonville, NC (ZIP code 28546) involves a multifaceted evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care accessibility. The presence of rheumatologists, the quality of local practices, the integration of telemedicine, access to mental health support, and the efficiency of the primary care system are all crucial factors. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their arthritis care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Jacksonville, including the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the spatial dimensions of healthcare access and help you visualize the factors that contribute to the "Arthritis Score" in your area.