28677, Statesville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28677, Statesville, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.79 percent of the residents in 28677 has some form of health insurance. 41.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.21 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 28677 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,177 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28677. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,814 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 28677, Statesville, North Carolina.

The analysis will focus on the quality of primary care physicians and their associated services within the 28677 ZIP code, located in Statesville, North Carolina, with specific attention to arthritis care, patient access, and related resources. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" framework, evaluating the overall healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis within this geographic area. This score is not a definitive metric but a composite evaluation based on available data and observations.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care:**

Statesville, and specifically the 28677 ZIP code, experiences the same challenges as many rural and suburban areas regarding physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor in determining access to care. While precise, real-time data on this ratio fluctuates, generally, the area may face a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like arthritis. The Arthritis Score is negatively impacted by this.

The availability of specialists, particularly rheumatologists, is another crucial element. Patients with arthritis often require the expertise of rheumatologists for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management. The presence and accessibility of rheumatologists within a reasonable travel distance significantly affect the Arthritis Score. If patients must travel long distances to see a rheumatologist, it increases the burden of care, impacting their quality of life and potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Several primary care practices in the 28677 area likely distinguish themselves through their commitment to patient care. These practices may have implemented strategies to improve access, such as extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits. Some may have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information and improve communication among healthcare providers.

Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on patient education and support are also highly valued. This includes providing educational materials about arthritis, offering support groups, and educating patients about self-management techniques. These practices contribute positively to the Arthritis Score by empowering patients to actively participate in their care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for improving access to healthcare, especially in areas with physician shortages. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 28677 ZIP code is a significant factor in the Arthritis Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals enhance accessibility and convenience for patients.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, allowing them to consult with their physicians, receive medication refills, and monitor their symptoms remotely. This reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic pain. The Arthritis Score is positively influenced by the availability and utilization of telemedicine services.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

Arthritis is often associated with chronic pain, which can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common among individuals with arthritis. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of the Arthritis Score.

Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their care models contribute positively to the score. This includes offering on-site counseling, referring patients to mental health specialists, and screening patients for mental health conditions. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being.

**Specific Considerations for Arthritis Care:**

Beyond general primary care services, the Arthritis Score must consider factors specific to arthritis management. This includes the availability of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services. These therapies are crucial for helping patients manage pain, improve mobility, and maintain their independence.

The Arthritis Score is also influenced by the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as X-rays and MRIs, which are essential for diagnosing and monitoring arthritis. Practices that have easy access to these services contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the availability of medication management services, including pharmacist consultations, is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the appropriate medications and understand how to take them correctly.

**Overall Arthritis Score Framework:**

The Arthritis Score for the 28677 ZIP code would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. The score would be negatively impacted by physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of telemedicine adoption. Conversely, the score would be positively influenced by practices that offer extended hours, patient education, integrated mental health services, and easy access to rehabilitation and diagnostic services.

The score would not be a static number, but a dynamic evaluation reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates would be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of healthcare services. The ultimate goal of the Arthritis Score is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare resources available to individuals with arthritis in the 28677 ZIP code, helping them make informed decisions about their care.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape within the 28677 ZIP code is crucial for individuals managing arthritis. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, telemedicine services, and mental health resources significantly impacts the quality of care. While this analysis provides a framework for evaluating these factors, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the data discussed, providing a more granular understanding of the healthcare environment in Statesville and the 28677 ZIP code.