28652, Minneapolis, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28652, Minneapolis, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 28652 has some form of health insurance. 22.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.03 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 28652 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28652. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,166 health care providers accessible to residents in 28652, Minneapolis, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Comparing 28652 (NC) and Minneapolis (MN)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" perspective, evaluating the availability and quality of arthritis care for residents of ZIP Code 28652 in North Carolina and comparing it to the primary care landscape in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The "Arthritis Score" is a composite metric reflecting access to rheumatologists, primary care physician (PCP) support, telemedicine options, mental health integration, and overall healthcare infrastructure. The higher the score, the better the access to and quality of arthritis-related care.

**28652, North Carolina: A Rural Landscape**

ZIP Code 28652 encompasses a predominantly rural area, likely impacting healthcare access. The Arthritis Score for this region would likely be negatively affected by several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical consideration. Rural areas frequently experience a shortage of specialists, particularly rheumatologists. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The lack of specialists forces patients to travel significant distances for care, adding to the burden of managing their condition.

Standout practices are less likely to be present in 28652 due to the lower population density. The absence of larger, integrated healthcare systems often means fewer resources for specialized arthritis care, such as advanced imaging or dedicated physical therapy programs. This situation can limit the scope of treatment options available to patients.

Telemedicine adoption, while offering a potential solution for geographical barriers, might face challenges in 28652. Limited broadband internet access in rural areas can hinder the effective delivery of telehealth services. Furthermore, older populations, who are often more susceptible to arthritis, may be less familiar with or comfortable using technology for healthcare consultations.

Mental health resources, crucial for individuals coping with chronic pain and the emotional impact of arthritis, could be limited. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of mental health professionals, further compounding the challenges faced by arthritis patients. The absence of integrated mental health services within primary care settings exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for patients to access comprehensive support.

**Minneapolis, Minnesota: A Metropolitan Perspective**

Minneapolis, a major metropolitan area, presents a contrasting picture. Its Arthritis Score would likely be significantly higher than that of 28652. The city's higher population density and robust healthcare infrastructure provide several advantages. Physician-to-patient ratios for rheumatologists are expected to be more favorable, resulting in shorter wait times and easier access to specialized care.

Minneapolis boasts a greater concentration of standout practices, including large hospital systems and specialized clinics. These facilities often offer comprehensive arthritis care, including advanced diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and multidisciplinary teams of specialists. Patients benefit from access to a wider range of treatment options and a more coordinated approach to their care.

Telemedicine adoption is likely to be more widespread in Minneapolis. The city's better internet infrastructure and higher levels of digital literacy among its population support the effective use of telehealth services. This allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving convenience.

Mental health resources are generally more accessible in Minneapolis. The city's larger population supports a wider network of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Integration of mental health services within primary care settings is also more common, making it easier for arthritis patients to receive comprehensive support for their emotional well-being.

**Comparative Analysis and Key Considerations**

The disparity in the Arthritis Scores between 28652 and Minneapolis underscores the significant impact of geography and healthcare infrastructure on access to quality arthritis care. Rural areas like 28652 face considerable challenges in providing specialized care, while metropolitan areas like Minneapolis offer a more comprehensive and accessible healthcare environment.

Several factors contribute to these differences. Population density, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services all play crucial roles. The presence of large healthcare systems and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options further enhance the quality of care in Minneapolis.

For individuals in 28652, the focus should be on identifying and leveraging existing resources, such as primary care physicians who can provide initial assessments and referrals to specialists. Exploring telemedicine options, even with limited broadband access, can also be beneficial. Advocacy for improved healthcare infrastructure, including increased access to specialists and mental health services, is crucial for improving the Arthritis Score in this region.

Minneapolis residents benefit from a more robust healthcare system, but they should still prioritize proactive healthcare management. This includes seeking early diagnosis and treatment, attending regular follow-up appointments, and actively participating in their care plan. Utilizing available resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can further enhance their well-being.

**Conclusion**

The "Arthritis Score" analysis reveals a clear disparity in healthcare access and quality between 28652 and Minneapolis. While Minneapolis offers a more favorable environment for arthritis patients, residents of 28652 face significant challenges. Understanding these differences is essential for both patients and healthcare providers.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of these and other regions, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we invite you to explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you analyze physician density, access to specialists, and other critical factors that impact the "Arthritis Score" in any area. Discover how data can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and access the care you need.