28790, Zirconia, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.40 percent of the residents in 28790 has some form of health insurance. 31.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.06 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 28790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 549 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28790. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 651 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,368 health care providers accessible to residents in 28790, Zirconia, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28790 & Primary Care Availability in Zirconia

Zirconia, North Carolina, nestled within the 28790 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to provide an "Arthritis Score" evaluation, assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area, with a specific focus on their capacity to address the needs of individuals managing arthritis. The "Arthritis Score" is not a standardized metric but rather a composite evaluation based on factors relevant to arthritis sufferers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. The ideal scenario is a high density of PCPs, ensuring timely access to appointments and ongoing care. Analyzing publicly available data, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) data, helps determine the PCP density per 1,000 residents within the 28790 ZIP code. This figure is then compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, negatively impacts the "Arthritis Score," as it can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment initiation, and ongoing management of arthritis symptoms.

Standout practices within the area are crucial. Identifying practices known for their patient-centered care, experience in managing chronic conditions like arthritis, and commitment to providing comprehensive services is paramount. This requires investigation into physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on rheumatology and musculoskeletal health are given higher consideration. Furthermore, practices that offer integrated services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to rheumatology specialists, significantly enhance the "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring, is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure online patient portals receive a higher score. This facilitates easier communication with physicians, reduces travel burdens, and can improve patient adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of arthritis care, yet they are intrinsically linked to patient well-being. Chronic pain, functional limitations, and the emotional toll of managing a long-term condition can significantly impact mental health. A robust "Arthritis Score" includes an assessment of the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. Practices that screen for depression and anxiety, offer counseling services, or have established relationships with mental health professionals contribute positively to the score. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of individuals with arthritis.

Specific practices within the 28790 ZIP code are then evaluated based on these criteria. For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, experienced physicians, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health resources would receive a higher score than a practice with fewer resources. The analysis will consider the availability of specialist referrals, focusing on access to rheumatologists, who are crucial for accurate diagnosis and specialized treatment of arthritis.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the accessibility of prescription medications. Easy access to pharmacies, both brick-and-mortar and mail-order, is essential for patients. The analysis considers the proximity of pharmacies to the primary care practices and the availability of medication assistance programs, which can help patients afford their medications.

Furthermore, the evaluation considers the availability of patient education materials and support groups. Practices that provide educational resources about arthritis, including information on disease management, lifestyle modifications, and available support groups, enhance patient empowerment and self-management skills. This includes providing information on local support groups, online resources, and educational events.

The analysis also considers the practice's commitment to patient communication. Practices that have clear communication policies, provide timely responses to patient inquiries, and offer accessible patient portals for secure communication receive higher scores.

Finally, the "Arthritis Score" is a dynamic assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare delivery models emerging regularly. The analysis will be updated regularly to reflect these changes and provide the most current and relevant information to patients.

The "Arthritis Score" for the 28790 ZIP code is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to medications and support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation that empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. This analysis is intended to provide a starting point for individuals seeking primary care in the Zirconia area.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Zirconia, including physician locations, practice locations, and access to resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographically informed perspective on the availability and accessibility of healthcare resources, enhancing the understanding of the "Arthritis Score" analysis.