28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.59 percent of the residents in 28775 has some form of health insurance. 68.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.94 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 28775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: 28775 & Scaly Mountain

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 28775, focusing on primary care physician availability in the adjacent community of Scaly Mountain. We aim to provide an “Arthritis Score” assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements for comprehensive arthritis management. The ultimate goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of good arthritis care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In the context of Scaly Mountain, the analysis considers the proximity of PCP practices to the community, factoring in travel times and ease of access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations. A high “Arthritis Score” necessitates a readily accessible network of PCPs who can provide initial diagnoses, management of comorbidities, and referrals to specialists like rheumatologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. The distance and availability of these PCPs greatly influence the overall score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the possibility of more personalized care. The analysis will consider publicly available data, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, to estimate physician-to-patient ratios within the 28775 ZIP code and the surrounding areas accessible to Scaly Mountain residents. This data will be used to assess the overall availability of primary care.

Standout practices contribute significantly to the “Arthritis Score”. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in arthritis care. This could include practices that utilize evidence-based treatment protocols, offer specialized services like infusion therapy or physical therapy on-site, or have a dedicated focus on patient education and support. The analysis will examine online reviews, practice websites, and professional directories to identify practices that are recognized for their expertise and patient-centered approach. The presence of a practice with a strong reputation for arthritis care significantly boosts the score.

Telemedicine adoption is a modern necessity. It has become increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility challenges or those living in remote areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in the 28775 area and those serving Scaly Mountain offer telemedicine services. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health resources are integral to effective arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The analysis considers the availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the healthcare ecosystem of 28775 and Scaly Mountain. Practices that integrate mental health services or offer referrals to mental health professionals will be viewed favorably, reflecting a holistic approach to patient care. The integration of mental health is a crucial element of a high score.

The “Arthritis Score” will also consider the availability of support groups and patient education programs. Support groups provide a valuable platform for individuals with arthritis to connect with others, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Patient education programs empower individuals to actively participate in their care, understand their condition, and make informed decisions about their treatment. Practices that offer or facilitate access to these resources will be recognized for their commitment to patient empowerment.

The analysis will evaluate the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services. These therapies play a vital role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life. The presence of readily accessible physical and occupational therapy services within the 28775 area and the surrounding communities will positively influence the “Arthritis Score”. The proximity of these services is particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations.

The overall “Arthritis Score” will be a composite assessment, weighting the factors discussed above based on their relative importance to comprehensive arthritis care. The final score will be a subjective assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the 28775 ZIP code and the availability of primary care in Scaly Mountain. The score will not be a numerical rating but a qualitative assessment of the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of arthritis care.

The analysis will consider the specific challenges faced by the population in this area, such as the potential for limited access to specialized care and the impact of geographic isolation. The assessment will also factor in the availability of transportation options, which is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The presence of public transportation or accessible transportation services will be viewed favorably.

The analysis will acknowledge that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The “Arthritis Score” is a snapshot in time and may change as new practices open, telemedicine capabilities expand, and mental health resources become more accessible. The score is intended to provide a general overview of the current state of arthritis care and to highlight areas where improvements can be made.

The “Arthritis Score” will be a valuable tool for individuals with arthritis, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their care and enabling healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement. Policymakers can use this information to advocate for resources and programs that enhance arthritis care in the community.

In conclusion, the “Arthritis Score” analysis for 28775 and Scaly Mountain seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis. The assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the accessibility and quality of arthritis care, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in detail, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing healthcare data, offering valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in your area.