The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28773, Saluda, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 89.55 percent of the residents in 28773 has some form of health insurance. 38.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.01 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 28773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 466 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28773. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 890 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,417 health care providers accessible to residents in 28773, Saluda, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28773, Saluda, North Carolina
Arthritis Score | 80 |
---|---|
People Score | 66 |
Provider Score | 69 |
Hospital Score | 64 |
Travel Score | 39 |
28773 | Saluda | 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: Saluda, NC (ZIP Code 28773)
This analysis examines the landscape of primary care and arthritis-related healthcare within Saluda, North Carolina (ZIP code 28773), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We assess physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, culminating in a data-driven "Arthritis Score" perspective. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for patients seeking care and to highlight areas of strength and potential improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem.
Saluda, a small town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural setting often translates to lower population density and, consequently, fewer healthcare providers compared to urban areas. This impacts access to care, particularly for specialized needs like arthritis management, which often requires a multidisciplinary approach.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**
Accurate physician-to-patient ratio data for Saluda specifically is difficult to ascertain due to the limited publicly available information at the ZIP code level. However, we can infer general trends based on county-level data and regional comparisons. Polk County, where Saluda is located, likely experiences a lower physician-to-patient ratio than the national average. This scarcity of providers can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for patients. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for many arthritis patients, and their availability is crucial for timely diagnosis, management, and referral to specialists. The accessibility of PCPs in Saluda is a critical factor influencing the overall Arthritis Score.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**
Identifying "standout" practices requires evaluating several criteria. These include the availability of comprehensive services, patient reviews, and the integration of technology. Practices that offer on-site X-ray facilities, physical therapy, and access to rheumatologists through referral networks would score favorably. Practices that actively participate in patient education programs and offer support groups would also be considered strong contenders. Furthermore, practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, as evidenced by positive patient testimonials and a focus on shared decision-making, would be prioritized. Researching and identifying these practices is a crucial step in assessing the local healthcare environment.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas. Its adoption within Saluda is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online patient portals are enhancing the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of telemedicine also allows for greater flexibility in scheduling appointments and facilitates follow-up care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within local practices is essential to understanding the accessibility of care.
**Mental Health Resources and their Significance:**
Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. The pain, limitations, and lifestyle changes associated with arthritis can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore crucial for comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referral networks, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The integration of mental health support directly influences the Arthritis Score, highlighting the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of the disease.
**The Arthritis Score Perspective:**
The Arthritis Score, in this context, is not a single, quantifiable metric but a holistic assessment based on the factors discussed above. It reflects the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of arthritis-related healthcare within Saluda. A higher score would indicate a more robust healthcare ecosystem, with readily available PCPs, specialized services, telemedicine options, and integrated mental health support. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, longer wait times, and a need for improved resources. The score is ultimately a tool for patients and healthcare providers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.
**Specific Considerations and Recommendations:**
Based on the analysis, several specific considerations emerge. The first is the need for increased physician recruitment, particularly PCPs and rheumatologists. The second is the importance of promoting telemedicine adoption among local practices. The third is the need for increased awareness of mental health resources and their integration into arthritis care. The fourth is the need for better data collection and analysis to accurately assess physician-to-patient ratios and other key metrics.
**Conclusion and Call to Action:**
Understanding the intricacies of the healthcare landscape in Saluda, NC, is crucial for both patients and providers. The Arthritis Score analysis offers a starting point for evaluating the availability and quality of care. To gain a deeper, more visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Saluda and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice types, and accessibility, we encourage you to explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and informative view of the local healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care.
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