28606, Boomer, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.00 percent of the residents in 28606 has some form of health insurance. 40.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.06 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 28606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28606. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28606 and Primary Care Availability in Boomer**

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 28606, encompassing the town of Lenoir, North Carolina, and assesses the primary care availability in the nearby community of Boomer. We will examine the accessibility of rheumatologists, the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care for individuals suffering from arthritis. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement.

The availability of specialized care is a critical factor in managing arthritis. In ZIP code 28606, the presence of rheumatologists is a primary concern. The number of board-certified rheumatologists practicing within the area directly impacts the accessibility of specialized expertise. A low number of rheumatologists can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This, in turn, can worsen patient outcomes and quality of life. The analysis will attempt to ascertain the current number of practicing rheumatologists and their patient load.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. A high physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, can strain the healthcare system. This can lead to reduced appointment availability, shorter consultation times, and a potential decline in the quality of care. The analysis will seek to determine the physician-to-patient ratio for both primary care physicians and rheumatologists in the area, comparing it to regional and national averages to gauge the level of access.

The presence of standout practices is a positive sign. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, employing a multidisciplinary approach to care, and actively participating in research. The analysis will identify any practices within 28606 that are known for their specialized arthritis care, their patient satisfaction scores, and their commitment to innovative treatment options. This may include practices that offer physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management services, all crucial elements in a holistic approach to arthritis management.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. It offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for individuals who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into arthritis care will be a key factor in the overall assessment.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into arthritis care is essential. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The level of collaboration between rheumatologists and mental health professionals will also be assessed, as a coordinated approach can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Primary care availability in Boomer, a nearby community, is another important consideration. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms of arthritis. Their ability to diagnose, refer patients to specialists, and provide ongoing care is crucial. The analysis will evaluate the number of primary care physicians practicing in Boomer, their patient load, and their ability to provide timely and comprehensive care. The proximity of Boomer to Lenoir and the ease of access to primary care services will be factored into the overall assessment.

The analysis will consider the availability of support services for arthritis patients. These include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management programs. Access to these services is vital for managing the symptoms of arthritis and improving patients’ quality of life. The analysis will identify the availability of these services within 28606 and Boomer, assessing their accessibility and the level of integration with the healthcare system.

The overall “Arthritis Score” for the area will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. This score will reflect the level of access to specialized care, the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of support services. The score will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for arthritis patients in 28606 and Boomer.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in 28606 and Boomer reveals the multifaceted nature of arthritis care. The availability of specialized care, the physician-to-patient ratios, the integration of telemedicine, and the incorporation of mental health resources are all critical components of a comprehensive approach. The analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of arthritis care in the area.

The evaluation of the area’s healthcare resources provides a baseline for future improvements. Addressing any identified shortcomings can lead to better patient outcomes and a higher quality of life for individuals living with arthritis. The goal is to ensure that all patients have access to the care they need to manage their condition effectively.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to care indicators, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that provide a comprehensive view of healthcare resources, helping patients and healthcare professionals make informed decisions.