28617, Crumpler, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.45 percent of the residents in 28617 has some form of health insurance. 56.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.24 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 28617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 374 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28617. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 127 health care providers accessible to residents in 28617, Crumpler, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28617 and Primary Care in Crumpler

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 28617, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians in the nearby community of Crumpler, North Carolina. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for patients managing this condition, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of integrated mental health resources. This analysis aims to offer insights that could inform patient decision-making and highlight areas for potential improvement in local healthcare delivery.

The primary challenge in evaluating arthritis care in this specific geographic area is the limited availability of specialized rheumatologists. ZIP code 28617, encompassing a primarily rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions: a smaller population base, which translates to fewer specialists and a potentially higher reliance on primary care physicians (PCPs) for initial diagnosis and ongoing management. Therefore, the analysis places significant emphasis on the role of PCPs in the area and their capacity to effectively address the needs of arthritis patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Determining the exact ratio within 28617 requires comprehensive data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, a reasonable estimate can be derived by analyzing the number of PCPs and other relevant specialists (e.g., internal medicine physicians) practicing within the ZIP code and its surrounding areas, compared to the total population. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of available doctors, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, poorer health outcomes for arthritis patients.

The availability of primary care in Crumpler is critical. Crumpler, as a neighboring community, often serves as a healthcare hub for residents of 28617. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing in Crumpler, their appointment availability, and their willingness to accept new patients is crucial. This evaluation should also consider the practice models employed by these physicians, such as whether they are part of larger healthcare networks or independent practices. The integration of primary care with specialized rheumatology services, even if geographically separated, is essential for providing comprehensive arthritis care.

Standout practices within 28617 and the surrounding areas would ideally demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a commitment to providing timely appointments, employing a patient-centered approach, and offering a range of services to address the multifaceted nature of arthritis. Practices that have invested in electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, enabling patients to access their medical information and communicate with their physicians electronically, are also highly desirable. Furthermore, practices that collaborate effectively with other healthcare providers, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists, are better equipped to provide holistic care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups can help arthritis patients manage their condition more effectively, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and minimizing travel burdens. The availability of telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of arthritis care. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The pain, limitations, and lifestyle adjustments associated with arthritis can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or have established referral pathways to mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. This includes providing resources for managing chronic pain, coping with the emotional impact of the disease, and promoting overall well-being.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires careful investigation. This includes searching online directories, contacting local practices, and reviewing patient testimonials. The analysis should also consider the availability of support groups, educational materials, and other resources that can help patients manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The presence of these resources contributes significantly to a higher Arthritis Score.

The Arthritis Score for doctors in 28617 and primary care availability in Crumpler, based on this analysis, would reflect a complex interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with ample access to PCPs, specialists, telemedicine options, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, such as limited physician availability, lack of telemedicine options, and a deficiency in mental health support. The final score would be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in meeting the needs of arthritis patients.

The goal is to provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Understanding the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the support systems available is essential for managing arthritis effectively. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating these factors and offers insights into the current state of arthritis care in 28617 and Crumpler.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in 28617 and Crumpler, and to visualize the distribution of physicians and healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.