28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.37 percent of the residents in 28683 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.65 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 28683 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28683. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28683 & Primary Care in Thurmond

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 28683, with a specific focus on primary care resources in the town of Thurmond. The evaluation utilizes a hypothetical "Arthritis Score," a composite metric considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized rheumatologists, telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health services, and overall practice quality. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, offering insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The initial assessment focuses on physician-to-patient ratios. ZIP code 28683, encompassing a relatively rural area, likely presents challenges in terms of physician density. The Arthritis Score would be negatively impacted by a low concentration of primary care physicians (PCPs) and, crucially, rheumatologists. A scarcity of specialists necessitates longer wait times for diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to delayed care and increased disease progression for arthritis sufferers. Furthermore, a high patient-to-physician ratio can strain existing resources, impacting appointment availability and the time physicians can dedicate to each patient.

Thurmond, a small town within the ZIP code, faces even greater hurdles. Primary care availability is likely limited, potentially requiring residents to travel to neighboring towns or cities for routine medical attention. The Arthritis Score for Thurmond would reflect this reduced accessibility, particularly impacting those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The absence of readily available primary care exacerbates the difficulties in early detection and management of arthritis.

Standout practices within the ZIP code would significantly boost the Arthritis Score. These practices would ideally demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes having PCPs with a strong understanding of arthritis management, offering on-site physical therapy, and fostering collaborative relationships with rheumatologists, even if they are located outside the immediate area. Practices employing advanced diagnostic tools, such as ultrasound for joint assessment, would also receive a higher score. The presence of dedicated arthritis education programs for patients would be another positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of the Arthritis Score, especially in a rural setting. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Thurmond and surrounding areas to access specialized care without extensive travel. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, reducing the burden on patients and improving adherence to treatment plans.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial element. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would receive a higher Arthritis Score. This integrated approach ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.

The overall quality of care is assessed through various factors. This includes patient satisfaction surveys, the availability of support groups, and the practice’s adherence to evidence-based guidelines for arthritis treatment. Practices actively participating in research or quality improvement initiatives would also be viewed favorably. The Arthritis Score would reflect the commitment of each practice to providing high-quality, patient-centered care.

The Arthritis Score would also consider the availability of specific arthritis treatments. Practices offering access to a wide range of therapies, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and other advanced treatments, would score higher. The ability to provide these treatments promptly and efficiently is crucial for managing arthritis and preventing disease progression. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments, would also be highly valued.

The analysis of the Thurmond primary care landscape within the broader ZIP code reveals potential challenges. The Arthritis Score for Thurmond would likely be lower due to the limited availability of primary care and the potential for longer travel times to access specialized rheumatology services. Addressing these limitations requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes efforts to attract and retain primary care physicians, promote telemedicine adoption, and foster collaborations between primary care practices and rheumatologists located outside of Thurmond.

Improving the Arthritis Score in ZIP code 28683 and, specifically, in Thurmond, necessitates a focus on several key areas. These include increasing physician density, particularly rheumatologists; expanding telemedicine capabilities; integrating mental health services; and promoting a culture of patient-centered care. Furthermore, proactive outreach to the community, providing arthritis education and support, can empower patients to manage their condition effectively.

The Arthritis Score, as a hypothetical metric, provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and quality. It highlights the importance of considering various factors beyond simply the number of physicians available. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of individuals living with arthritis.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28683, including the location of medical facilities, physician density, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.