28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.82 percent of the residents in 28791 has some form of health insurance. 37.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.12 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 28791 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28791. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,882 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,608 health care providers accessible to residents in 28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28791)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within Hendersonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28791) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, termed an "Arthritis Score," will assess the landscape of healthcare providers, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized rheumatology services, adoption of telemedicine, and integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the resources available to individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographic area.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) form the crucial first point of contact for individuals experiencing arthritis symptoms. Their availability directly impacts the speed and ease with which patients can access diagnosis, initial treatment, and referral to specialists. In Hendersonville, the density of PCPs relative to the population is a key indicator. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, generally translates to easier access and shorter wait times for appointments. This metric is crucial for the Arthritis Score. We need to investigate the precise ratio, considering the total population of 28791 and the number of practicing PCPs within the zip code. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to determine this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they clustered in specific areas, creating potential access disparities for residents in more rural parts of the zip code? The presence of community health centers and clinics, which often serve a broader range of patients, including those with limited financial resources, also influences the overall score. The Arthritis Score will consider the geographic distribution of PCPs and the availability of these crucial community resources.

Specialized rheumatology services are essential for the effective management of arthritis. Rheumatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The presence and availability of rheumatologists within 28791, or within a reasonable commuting distance, significantly impact the Arthritis Score. The number of practicing rheumatologists, their appointment availability, and the scope of services offered (e.g., infusion therapy, advanced imaging) are all critical factors. A lack of local rheumatology services necessitates travel, which can be a significant barrier to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations.

The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers is a modern factor influencing access to care. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The Arthritis Score will evaluate the extent to which PCPs and rheumatologists in 28791 offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of patient portals for communication and information sharing. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the overall impact of arthritis on daily life can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Arthritis Score will evaluate the integration of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) and the degree to which PCPs and rheumatologists screen for and address mental health concerns. Collaboration between primary care, rheumatology, and mental health providers is a key indicator of a well-integrated system.

Standout practices within 28791 will also be identified. This will involve researching practices that are known for their patient-centered care, their use of innovative treatment approaches, and their commitment to patient education. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the availability of support groups, and the integration of complementary therapies (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy) will be considered. Practices demonstrating a commitment to holistic care and patient empowerment will receive a higher score.

Physician-to-patient ratios, while important, are not the sole determinant of access to care. The Arthritis Score will consider the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, the availability of after-hours care, and the ease of navigating the healthcare system. Practices with efficient systems and a focus on patient convenience will receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score will assess the availability of resources related to arthritis education and support. This includes the presence of patient education materials, support groups, and online resources. Practices that actively promote patient education and empower patients to manage their condition will be viewed favorably.

The final Arthritis Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of these various factors. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining access to and quality of arthritis care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a valuable tool for individuals seeking arthritis care in Hendersonville, NC.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in 28791. Further investigation, including direct contact with healthcare providers and patient interviews, would be necessary to refine the analysis and provide a more detailed and nuanced assessment. However, the information gathered from public sources and healthcare directories provides a foundational understanding of the availability and quality of care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, analyze patient access patterns, and gain further insights into the healthcare landscape of Hendersonville, NC, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the factors influencing arthritis care access.