Health Scores Near 28741, Highlands, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 82.59 percent of the residents in 28741 has some form of health insurance. 45.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.78 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 28741 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 357 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28741. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,630 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 943 health care providers accessible to residents in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina
| Arthritis Score | 78 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 83 |
| Provider Score | 58 |
| Hospital Score | 41 |
| Travel Score | 53 |
| 28741 | Highlands | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Arthritis Score Analysis: Highlands, NC (ZIP Code 28741)
This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 28741, focusing on factors crucial for patients managing arthritis. The score is not a numerical rating but rather a qualitative evaluation of resources and accessibility, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support – all critical for comprehensive arthritis care. The geographic focus is specifically on the town of Highlands, North Carolina, and its surrounding area.
The primary care landscape in Highlands, NC, presents both advantages and challenges for arthritis patients. The town's small size and relative isolation contribute to a limited number of available PCPs. This can impact physician-to-patient ratios, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention during consultations. This scarcity necessitates a careful evaluation of each practice’s ability to provide timely and effective care.
Highlands, being a popular destination for retirees and seasonal residents, likely has a population with a higher-than-average age demographic, which correlates with a greater prevalence of arthritis. This demographic reality further underscores the importance of accessible and specialized care. The analysis will consider the overall capacity of the existing practices to serve this potentially high-need population.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**
Determining precise physician-to-patient ratios requires access to specific patient data, which is typically confidential. However, we can infer general trends based on publicly available information, such as the number of practicing PCPs in the area and the estimated population of Highlands. A low physician-to-patient ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio can signal potential difficulties in securing appointments and receiving prompt attention.
The analysis will investigate the appointment scheduling practices of local PCPs. Do they offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent needs? How long is the typical wait time for a routine check-up? Are extended hours or weekend availability offered to accommodate patients' schedules? These factors significantly impact the "Arthritis Score" as they directly affect accessibility.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**
Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. Firstly, the presence of physicians with specialized training or experience in rheumatology or musculoskeletal conditions is highly desirable. While a PCP might not be a rheumatologist, a physician with a particular interest in arthritis can offer a more nuanced understanding of the condition.
Secondly, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as X-ray machines, can streamline the diagnostic process, reducing the need for patients to travel to other facilities. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including physical therapy or access to these services, also receive a higher score. Collaboration with specialists, such as rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and pain management specialists, is also crucial.
Thirdly, the practice's approach to patient education and support is vital. Does the practice provide educational materials on arthritis management, including information on medication, lifestyle modifications, and exercise? Do they offer support groups or connect patients with relevant community resources? A proactive approach to patient education significantly enhances the "Arthritis Score."
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine offers significant advantages for arthritis patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or who live in geographically isolated areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, review test results, and monitor medication adherence can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel.
The analysis will examine the extent to which local PCPs have adopted telemedicine. Do they offer virtual appointments? What types of services are available through telemedicine? Are they using secure platforms to protect patient privacy? Practices that actively utilize telemedicine will receive a higher "Arthritis Score" due to the increased accessibility and convenience they offer.
**Mental Health Resources and their Importance:**
Arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care.
The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the practices or through referral networks. Do PCPs screen patients for mental health concerns? Do they have established relationships with therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors who specialize in chronic pain management or mental health issues? Practices that prioritize mental health support will receive a higher score.
**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**
The "Arthritis Score" for PCPs in Highlands, NC, will be determined by a holistic assessment of the factors discussed above. The limited number of PCPs in the area presents a challenge, but practices that demonstrate a commitment to accessibility, specialized care, telemedicine integration, and mental health support will receive a more favorable evaluation.
Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide arthritis patients in Highlands with a better understanding of the available resources and to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed information, this analysis provides a valuable starting point.
To visualize the geographic distribution of these practices and access further insights into healthcare resources in Highlands and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform for exploring healthcare data and making informed decisions about your care.
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