28689, Union Grove, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.31 percent of the residents in 28689 has some form of health insurance. 22.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.33 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 28689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28689. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,681 health care providers accessible to residents in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28689 and Primary Care Availability in Union Grove

This analysis provides an Arthritis Score assessment for medical resources within ZIP code 28689, encompassing Union Grove, North Carolina, and evaluates primary care availability within the town. The evaluation considers factors pertinent to arthritis sufferers, including physician accessibility, specialized care options, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical elements in managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of this analysis rests on understanding the physician-to-patient ratio within the defined geographic area. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, presents a significant challenge for individuals seeking timely appointments and ongoing care. While precise physician counts fluctuate, the rural nature of Union Grove and the surrounding areas within 28689 suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians and specialists, including rheumatologists, crucial for arthritis management. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times, increased travel distances, and ultimately, delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and specialization of available medical professionals are paramount. The presence of board-certified rheumatologists, for example, is a strong indicator of comprehensive arthritis care. Assessing the credentials and experience of physicians practicing within the area is essential. Do they have a demonstrated history of successfully treating various forms of arthritis? Do they participate in continuing medical education focused on advancements in arthritis management? These factors contribute significantly to the overall Arthritis Score.

Standout practices within the 28689 ZIP code and serving the Union Grove area would demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes offering extended hours, convenient appointment scheduling, and a welcoming environment. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing resources and support groups, also earn higher marks. Furthermore, a practice's adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and its ability to seamlessly share information with other healthcare providers enhance the coordination of care, a vital element in managing arthritis.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including reduced travel time, increased access to specialists, and the ability to monitor symptoms remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher Arthritis Score. The effectiveness of these telemedicine initiatives depends on factors such as the availability of reliable internet access in the Union Grove area and the willingness of both physicians and patients to adopt this technology.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis management is mental health. Living with chronic pain and limited mobility can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in this analysis. The presence of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists within the 28689 ZIP code, or readily accessible via referral networks, is a positive indicator. Ideally, practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals who specialize in chronic pain management and the psychological impact of arthritis.

Assessing the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is also essential. These therapies play a vital role in maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving the quality of life for arthritis sufferers. Practices that offer on-site therapy services or have strong partnerships with local physical therapy clinics contribute positively to the Arthritis Score. The accessibility of these services, considering factors such as insurance coverage and transportation options, is also a consideration.

The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds, is another factor. Timely access to these diagnostic tools is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of arthritis progression. Practices that have access to these services, either on-site or through established referral networks, receive higher scores. The efficiency of the referral process and the turnaround time for results are also relevant factors.

The Arthritis Score also takes into account the availability of alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care. While these therapies are not a substitute for conventional medical treatment, they can provide complementary pain relief and improve overall well-being. Practices that offer or recommend these therapies, or have established referral networks, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Union Grove is intrinsically linked to the overall Arthritis Score. Primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for many patients, providing initial diagnosis, referrals to specialists, and ongoing care coordination. A robust primary care system, with sufficient physician availability and efficient referral processes, is essential for timely arthritis diagnosis and management. The analysis considers the number of primary care physicians practicing in Union Grove, their patient load, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists.

The availability of patient education materials and support groups is another factor. Practices that provide educational resources, such as brochures, websites, and patient education sessions, empower patients to actively participate in their own care. The presence of local arthritis support groups, offering peer support and shared experiences, can also significantly improve the quality of life for arthritis sufferers.

Finally, the analysis considers the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the communication skills of the medical staff, and the overall cleanliness and comfort of the practice environment. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide a positive healthcare experience receive higher Arthritis Scores.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 28689 and primary care availability in Union Grove is a complex evaluation. It relies on a multifaceted assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. The rural nature of the area presents both challenges and opportunities in providing comprehensive arthritis care. The presence of dedicated practices, embracing technology and prioritizing patient well-being, can significantly improve the lives of individuals living with this chronic condition.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the medical landscape in Union Grove and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialty availability, and access to healthcare resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.