28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 28636 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.55 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 28636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,001 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina.

Arthritis, a debilitating condition affecting millions, necessitates comprehensive and accessible healthcare. This analysis focuses on the quality of primary care available in Hiddenite, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28636), specifically evaluating its capacity to serve patients with arthritis. The assessment incorporates factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, crucial components in managing the multifaceted challenges of arthritis.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. In Hiddenite, the availability of primary care physicians is a key factor. Analyzing the ratio involves determining the number of practicing primary care doctors within the 28636 ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A higher ratio generally suggests greater accessibility. However, this metric alone doesn't paint the complete picture. The age and health profile of the population, including the prevalence of arthritis, significantly impact the demand for primary care services.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis. Identifying these practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, which is crucial for managing flare-ups. The presence of dedicated care coordinators or nurses who specialize in arthritis management is also a significant advantage. Practices that offer extended hours or weekend availability further enhance accessibility. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate communication and coordination of care is essential.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, are better equipped to provide convenient and accessible care. The availability of telehealth options reduces the burden of travel and allows for more frequent interactions between patients and physicians.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect 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. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, are better positioned to provide holistic care. This integration ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition.

Specific practices in Hiddenite are assessed based on these criteria. The analysis would involve identifying the primary care practices within the ZIP code and gathering information on their services. This information would be obtained through online research, practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct communication with the practices. The assessment would focus on the specific services offered, the availability of appointments, the use of technology, and the integration of mental health resources.

The evaluation would consider the patient experience. This includes factors like the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Patient reviews and testimonials are valuable sources of information. They provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each practice from the perspective of those who are most directly affected by the quality of care.

The analysis would also consider the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rheumatology specialists. Arthritis management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, and the ability to access these services locally is crucial. The presence of these services within the practice or through referral networks enhances the overall quality of care.

The assessment would recognize any limitations. Data availability is a primary concern. Information on practice characteristics and services may not always be readily available or consistently updated. Patient reviews can be subjective and may not always reflect the experiences of all patients. The analysis would acknowledge these limitations and strive to provide the most accurate and comprehensive assessment possible.

The final Arthritis Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality of primary care available in Hiddenite for patients with arthritis. It would be based on the weighted scores of the individual factors: physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The weighting of each factor would reflect its relative importance in providing effective and accessible care.

The conclusion would summarize the findings of the analysis. It would highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in Hiddenite. It would identify the standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. It would also point out areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine options, and integrating mental health services.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the primary care landscape in Hiddenite, North Carolina, specifically for patients with arthritis. It is a dynamic situation, and the availability of services and the quality of care may change over time. Patients are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Hiddenite, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your community.