24724, Freeman, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.67 percent of the residents in 24724 has some form of health insurance. 84.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.96 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 24724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24724 & Primary Care in Freeman

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 24724 and assesses primary care availability in the broader area of Freeman, providing an “Arthritis Score” assessment based on various factors. This score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation of the resources and access available to individuals managing arthritis within the specified geographic regions. The primary focus is on the ability of residents to receive timely, comprehensive, and integrated care, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and supportive services.

The foundation of effective arthritis management rests on accessible primary care. Freeman, being the encompassing geographic area, requires an evaluation of its primary care physician (PCP) availability. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a diminished quality of care. While specific figures require localized data collection, a general assessment can be made based on publicly available information from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. This preliminary step helps establish a baseline for evaluating access to care.

Within ZIP code 24724, the availability of rheumatologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis, is crucial. The presence of rheumatologists within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable commuting distance, significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. The absence of these specialists necessitates referrals to providers located further away, increasing the burden on patients and potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a rheumatology practice, or even a visiting specialist, significantly boosts the score.

Beyond the presence of specialists, the characteristics of the primary care practices within 24724 and the surrounding areas are vital. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Do they have experience managing patients with arthritis and related conditions? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility and quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, including a focus on chronic disease management and proactive patient education, will receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the Arthritis Score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations or virtual monitoring, can be particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, especially for those with mobility limitations, and provide convenient access to follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, enhance the score. The integration of these technologies demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked but are essential for arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, within the primary care practices or the broader community, is a critical factor. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral pathways to mental health professionals, receive a higher score. This holistic approach to care addresses the complex needs of individuals living with arthritis.

Standout practices within ZIP code 24724, if any, deserve special recognition. These practices may be characterized by their patient-centered approach, innovative use of technology, or exceptional patient outcomes. Identifying and highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers and encourage the adoption of best practices. This could include practices that have implemented comprehensive arthritis management programs, incorporating physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists. These services are integral to comprehensive arthritis care. The presence of these services within the ZIP code or a reasonable distance from it, significantly enhances the score. Integrated care models, where these services are coordinated with primary care and rheumatology, are particularly beneficial.

The overall Arthritis Score for ZIP code 24724 and primary care availability in Freeman is a reflection of the interplay of these factors. It is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on the evolving healthcare landscape. The presence of specialists, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of ancillary services all contribute to the final evaluation.

In conclusion, assessing the Arthritis Score is a complex process that requires a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available within a specific geographic area. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed investigation would require access to localized data and direct engagement with healthcare providers.

To further explore the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 24724 and the surrounding areas, and to gain a visual representation of the healthcare resources available, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify the location of physicians, specialists, and other healthcare resources, and to assess access to care within your community.