28704, Arden, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28704, Arden, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.25 percent of the residents in 28704 has some form of health insurance. 28.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.00 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 28704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,053 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28704. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,473 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,835 health care providers accessible to residents in 28704, Arden, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Arden, NC (ZIP Code 28704)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 28704 (Arden, North Carolina), focusing on factors crucial for individuals managing arthritis. The score considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all of which contribute to comprehensive arthritis care. This evaluation is not a formal medical endorsement, but rather an informative overview designed to assist patients in navigating healthcare options.

Arden, a community nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The Arthritis Score is designed to reflect this reality, considering the potential impact of rurality and the specific needs of a population often dealing with chronic pain and mobility limitations. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

The physician-to-patient ratio in Arden and the surrounding Buncombe County is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in many rural areas shows a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment for conditions like arthritis. The Arthritis Score considers the average wait times for appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or urgent care slots. Practices with shorter wait times and readily available appointments score higher.

Primary care availability extends beyond just the number of doctors. The score also assesses the accessibility of practices, including their hours of operation, weekend and evening availability, and proximity to public transportation. Practices located closer to residential areas and with extended hours score higher, as they are more convenient for patients with mobility challenges or those who work during traditional business hours.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Certain primary care practices in the 28704 area may stand out due to their specific approaches to arthritis care. The Arthritis Score identifies practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, including a focus on education and shared decision-making. Practices that actively involve patients in treatment plans, provide clear explanations of conditions and treatment options, and offer resources for self-management score higher.

Another crucial factor is the availability of ancillary services within the practice or through readily accessible referrals. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rheumatology specialists. Practices with established referral networks and strong communication with specialists receive a higher score. The score also considers the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray facilities, which can expedite diagnosis and treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The Arthritis Score evaluates the extent to which practices have adopted telemedicine technologies. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online patient portals receive higher scores. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients by reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The quality of telemedicine services is also considered. The score assesses the ease of use of the telehealth platform, the availability of technical support, and the quality of communication between the physician and the patient during virtual appointments. Practices that offer high-quality, user-friendly telemedicine services score higher, reflecting a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

Arthritis often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. The Arthritis Score places significant emphasis on the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores.

The score also considers the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Practices that actively coordinate care between primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and mental health professionals receive a higher score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient well-being. This integrated approach is essential for managing the complex needs of individuals with arthritis.

**Specifics within Arden (28704):**

Due to privacy and data limitations, specific practice names and exact scoring are not provided in this general analysis. However, the principles outlined above are applied to evaluate the local healthcare landscape. Practices in the 28704 area are assessed based on their adherence to these principles, with a focus on patient-centered care, accessibility, and the integration of mental health resources.

The Arthritis Score considers the unique characteristics of Arden, including its proximity to Asheville and the potential for access to specialized care. Practices that leverage the resources available in the larger metropolitan area, such as rheumatology specialists and mental health professionals, receive higher scores. The score also considers the impact of the local community, including support groups and patient advocacy organizations.

**Conclusion:**

The Arthritis Score provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of primary care services in Arden, NC (28704), specifically focusing on the needs of individuals managing arthritis. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape. This assessment is designed to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for their needs.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Arden, NC (28704), including geographical proximity to practices and specialists, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can offer a valuable perspective on the accessibility of healthcare resources in your area.