28659, North Wilkesboro, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28659, North Wilkesboro, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.43 percent of the residents in 28659 has some form of health insurance. 43.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.13 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 28659 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,881 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28659. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,070 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,273 health care providers accessible to residents in 28659, North Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28659 and Primary Care in North Wilkesboro

Analyzing the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 28659, encompassing North Wilkesboro, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supportive resources, culminating in an overall "Arthritis Score" assessment. The score, while not explicitly quantified, reflects a qualitative evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of arthritis care rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). North Wilkesboro, like many rural areas, faces challenges in PCP density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in arthritis diagnosis and management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. Researching the specific PCP-to-patient ratio for 28659 is paramount. Information from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems such as Wilkes Medical Center are crucial sources for this data.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are important. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have experience managing chronic conditions like arthritis? The presence of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) within the practices can augment physician capacity, improving access to care. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a critical factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, streamline medication management, and improve the tracking of patient progress.

Specialist care is also essential. While primary care physicians often manage the initial stages of arthritis, rheumatologists are crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care of complex cases. The presence of rheumatologists within or near 28659 significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. The absence of a rheumatologist necessitates travel to larger cities like Winston-Salem or Charlotte, adding to the burden on patients and potentially delaying access to specialized care. The availability of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services, such as pain management clinics, further enhances the quality of arthritis care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving appointment availability. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in 28659 is crucial. Does the practice offer virtual consultations? Are they equipped to monitor patients remotely? The availability of telemedicine services directly impacts the Arthritis Score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health is inextricably linked to chronic pain conditions like arthritis. The emotional and psychological impact of living with arthritis can be substantial, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is therefore a vital component of the Arthritis Score. Do primary care practices offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there support groups or other community resources available to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of arthritis? The integration of mental health services is a critical aspect of holistic arthritis care.

Standout practices within 28659 can significantly elevate the overall Arthritis Score. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care, including early diagnosis, aggressive treatment strategies, and patient education, is essential. These practices might have specialized programs for arthritis management, employ dedicated nurses or care coordinators, or actively participate in clinical trials. Publicly available information, such as patient reviews, practice websites, and information from local hospitals, can help identify these standout practices.

The Arthritis Score is not solely determined by the availability of medical services. Patient education and empowerment also play a crucial role. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, self-management tools, and access to support groups contribute positively to the score. Educating patients about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications empowers them to take an active role in their care, leading to better outcomes.

Another factor to consider is the affordability of care. The cost of medications, specialist visits, and other services can be a significant barrier to access. The Arthritis Score should consider the availability of financial assistance programs, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the transparency of pricing. Practices that work to make care more affordable for patients contribute positively to the overall assessment.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in 28659 reveals a complex picture. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the Arthritis Score. The specific physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of local practices, and the availability of supportive services are crucial factors. Identifying standout practices and assessing the affordability of care are also important considerations.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28659 and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physicians, specialists, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Wilkesboro and surrounding areas.