28615, Creston, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28615, Creston, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.19 percent of the residents in 28615 has some form of health insurance. 49.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.46 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 28615 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28615. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 546 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,764 health care providers accessible to residents in 28615, Creston, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Creston, NC (ZIP Code 28615)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care in Creston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28615) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess not only the number of physicians but also their specialization, the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in managing a chronic condition like arthritis. This analysis aims to provide an "Arthritis Score" reflecting the overall healthcare landscape for individuals in this area.

The foundation of arthritis care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Creston, being a rural area, likely faces challenges in physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. The initial assessment of a patient with arthritis often falls to the PCP, who can then refer them to a specialist. Therefore, a robust primary care network is the first crucial factor in our Arthritis Score.

Specialist availability is another key consideration. Rheumatologists, specifically trained to diagnose and treat arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, are essential. Their presence within or near the 28615 ZIP code is a significant indicator of the quality of arthritis care. The absence of a rheumatologist necessitates travel for specialized consultations and treatment, adding a layer of complexity and potentially delaying proper care. The Arthritis Score must account for the presence, or lack thereof, of these specialists.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. For arthritis patients, this can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms. The Arthritis Score should reflect the availability and utilization of telemedicine services by local practices. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, the services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in chronic pain management is a crucial factor. The Arthritis Score should consider the proximity and accessibility of these resources, as well as the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

Standout practices in the 28615 area, if any, would significantly influence the Arthritis Score. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care – encompassing early diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, patient education, and proactive management – is crucial. These practices may offer specialized programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups. Their existence elevates the overall quality of care available in the area. Assessing these practices requires examining their patient reviews, the range of services they offer, and their integration of best practices in arthritis management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical factor in determining the overall accessibility of care. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased stress on the existing healthcare system. Accurate data on physician-to-patient ratios within the 28615 ZIP code is essential for a comprehensive assessment. This data should be compared to state and national averages to provide context and highlight areas where improvements are needed. The Arthritis Score must incorporate this metric to accurately reflect the challenges patients may face in accessing care.

Primary care availability, beyond just the raw number of physicians, involves factors like appointment scheduling, insurance acceptance, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices that offer flexible scheduling options, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide after-hours or weekend coverage enhance access to care and improve patient outcomes. The Arthritis Score must account for these practical considerations, as they directly impact the patient experience.

Assessing the availability of physical and occupational therapy is another critical element. These therapies play a vital role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and maintaining quality of life. The presence of qualified therapists within the 28615 ZIP code, or within a reasonable distance, is a significant positive factor. The Arthritis Score should reflect the accessibility of these services, considering factors like wait times for appointments and the range of therapies offered.

The Arthritis Score should also consider the integration of patient education programs. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies are better equipped to manage their arthritis and improve their overall well-being. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and contribute positively to the Arthritis Score.

The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as X-rays and MRIs, is also important. Timely access to these services is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of arthritis progression. The Arthritis Score should reflect the availability and accessibility of these services within the 28615 ZIP code, as delays in diagnosis or monitoring can negatively impact patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for Creston, NC (ZIP Code 28615) is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. The score should reflect the availability of physicians, specialists, telemedicine, mental health resources, and support services. It should also account for physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, and the integration of patient education. A comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis, considering the specific challenges and opportunities present in this rural community.

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