28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.84 percent of the residents in 28783 has some form of health insurance. 40.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.21 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 28783 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 452 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28783. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,475 health care providers accessible to residents in 28783, Tuckasegee, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: 28783 & Tuckasegee Primary Care

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28783, encompassing Tuckasegee, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach, especially when assessing resources for arthritis sufferers. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health support, all factors that contribute to an “Arthritis Score” reflecting the quality and accessibility of care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals managing arthritis.

The initial assessment involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise numbers fluctuate, the general availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Tuckasegee is a crucial starting point. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care, which is vital for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. This ratio is further complicated by the potential for specialists, like rheumatologists, to be geographically distant. The analysis needs to account for the travel time and ease of access to specialists.

Beyond raw numbers, the type and quality of primary care practices significantly impact the Arthritis Score. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors contribute to accessibility. Practices that emphasize a patient-centered approach, focusing on shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans, tend to yield better outcomes for arthritis patients. The availability of on-site physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management services within a primary care setting can streamline care and improve the patient experience.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their approach to arthritis management. Do they have dedicated programs or protocols for arthritis patients? Do they regularly assess patients' pain levels, functional limitations, and overall quality of life? Practices that utilize evidence-based treatment guidelines and offer comprehensive care, including medication management, lifestyle modifications, and patient education, will naturally receive higher scores. The presence of certified rheumatology nurses or other specialized staff can also enhance the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care and disease management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual follow-up appointments, medication refills, and educational resources, receive higher scores. The ease of use and integration of these technologies into the overall care plan are also critical considerations.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health integration is also crucial for arthritis patients. Chronic pain and disability associated with arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, will score higher. This includes screening for mental health concerns, providing counseling services, and coordinating care between primary care physicians and mental health professionals.

Specific practice examples within 28783 and the surrounding areas require detailed research, which is beyond the scope of this generalized analysis. However, the framework provides a methodology for evaluating practices. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on self-management techniques, such as exercise programs, dietary guidelines, and assistive devices, is also important. The availability of support groups and patient advocacy resources can further enhance the Arthritis Score.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs, is essential for monitoring disease progression and guiding treatment decisions. The proximity of these services and the efficiency of the referral process can significantly impact the patient experience. Similarly, access to pharmacies that carry the necessary medications and offer convenient services, such as medication delivery, is another important factor.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the practice's commitment to patient education and empowerment. Do they provide patients with the tools and knowledge they need to actively participate in their care? This includes offering educational materials, providing access to online resources, and encouraging patients to ask questions and express their concerns. Practices that foster a strong patient-physician relationship and prioritize communication are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

The Arthritis Score is not a static metric; it evolves as healthcare practices adapt and innovate. Ongoing monitoring of these factors is essential to provide an accurate assessment of the healthcare landscape. The overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care for arthritis patients in Tuckasegee, and the surrounding areas, will determine the final score. The analysis should consider the overall cost of care, including medication costs, specialist fees, and the availability of financial assistance programs.

In conclusion, assessing the Arthritis Score for 28783 and primary care availability in Tuckasegee requires a holistic evaluation, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to ancillary services. This analysis offers a framework for understanding the complexities of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to ensure that arthritis patients have access to the best possible care, enabling them to live fulfilling lives.

**To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28783, including the location of practices, specialists, and ancillary services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, helping you make informed decisions about your care.**