28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 45.21 percent of the residents in 28733 has some form of health insurance. 24.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.21 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 28733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Fontana Dam, NC (ZIP Code 28733)

This analysis examines the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 28733, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the accessibility of supporting resources. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" perspective, evaluating the overall environment for individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographic area. This score is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors below.

Fontana Dam, North Carolina, is a relatively small community, and the availability of healthcare services is often a key concern. The "Arthritis Score" for this region is significantly impacted by the limited number of primary care physicians and the absence of specialized rheumatology practices directly within the ZIP code. This geographical reality creates a considerable challenge for individuals seeking timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of arthritis conditions.

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

The physician-to-patient ratio in 28733 is likely unfavorable, given the rural nature of the area and the potential for a higher proportion of elderly residents, a demographic more prone to arthritis. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of arthritis care access. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, providing referrals to specialists, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating overall healthcare. A scarcity of PCPs translates to longer wait times for appointments, potential delays in diagnosis, and a heavier burden on existing physicians. This can lead to reduced time spent per patient, potentially impacting the quality of care.

The limited primary care availability also impacts the ability of patients to receive routine checkups and preventative care, which are essential for managing arthritis. Regular monitoring of disease progression, medication side effects, and overall health is crucial. When access to primary care is restricted, these vital aspects of care can suffer.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Due to the limited healthcare infrastructure in Fontana Dam itself, residents likely rely on practices located in neighboring towns or cities. Identifying "standout practices" requires investigating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and accessibility. This involves researching factors like the availability of specialized equipment, the expertise of the medical staff, and the practice's commitment to patient education and support.

The absence of rheumatology specialists directly in 28733 necessitates patients to travel for specialized care. Therefore, the practices that are most accessible and offer the most comprehensive services become particularly important. This includes practices with well-established referral networks, a focus on patient education, and a willingness to collaborate with other healthcare providers.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographical challenges faced by residents of 28733. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to their daily lives.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort level with technology, and the practice's investment in telemedicine infrastructure. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations can provide a valuable service to patients in remote areas.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can have a significant impact on a person's mental health. The pain, limitations, and uncertainty associated with arthritis can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, an important component of the "Arthritis Score."

The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who are familiar with the challenges of living with arthritis is crucial. These professionals can provide support, coping strategies, and treatment for mental health conditions. The integration of mental health services into the overall arthritis care plan is essential for promoting patient well-being.

**Overall "Arthritis Score" Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Arthritis Score" for 28733 is likely moderate to low. The limited availability of primary care physicians, the absence of rheumatology specialists, and the potential challenges related to access to mental health resources contribute to this assessment. While telemedicine can improve access, its effectiveness depends on factors such as internet access and practice implementation.

The score reflects the reality of rural healthcare access, where patients often face longer travel times, limited choices, and potential delays in receiving care. This underscores the need for innovative solutions, such as expanded telemedicine programs, increased collaboration between healthcare providers, and efforts to attract and retain medical professionals in the area.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Fontana Dam, NC, requires a strategic approach. Understanding the availability of resources, the characteristics of local practices, and the potential benefits of telemedicine is crucial for individuals managing arthritis. For a visual representation of the healthcare environment in 28733, including the location of physician practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a detailed geographic overview to aid in making informed decisions about your healthcare journey.