26283, Montrose, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26283, Montrose, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.04 percent of the residents in 26283 has some form of health insurance. 34.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.47 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 26283 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 435 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26283. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 326 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 476 health care providers accessible to residents in 26283, Montrose, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26283 and Primary Care Availability in Montrose

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare, specifically focusing on arthritis care within ZIP code 26283 and the broader primary care landscape of Montrose, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, termed an "Arthritis Score," considers several key factors influencing patient access and the standard of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

ZIP code 26283, encompassing the town of Montrose and surrounding areas, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature. The primary concern is the potential for limited access to specialized medical care, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and increased travel burdens for patients. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, alongside publicly available information from the American Medical Association and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, would be necessary to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code. A high ratio, conversely, suggests a more favorable environment for patients seeking care.

The presence of standout practices significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. These practices are characterized by a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This includes employing board-certified rheumatologists, offering comprehensive diagnostic services (such as advanced imaging), and utilizing evidence-based treatment protocols. Identifying such practices requires a review of patient reviews, peer recommendations, and the practice's participation in quality improvement programs. In Montrose, a practice demonstrating a strong focus on arthritis care might offer specialized physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education programs, all of which contribute to a higher Arthritis Score. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists, is another crucial factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up appointments remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, receive a higher score. This is particularly relevant for arthritis patients who may have mobility limitations or live far from specialized medical facilities. The ability to manage medication refills and communicate with healthcare providers through secure online platforms further enhances the patient experience and contributes to a higher Arthritis Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and receive a higher score. This includes providing access to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, and other resources that help patients manage the psychological aspects of their condition. Screening for mental health issues and proactively addressing them is a critical component of a high-quality arthritis care model.

The overall primary care availability in Montrose is another significant factor influencing the Arthritis Score. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms of arthritis. The availability of PCPs, their willingness to refer patients to rheumatologists, and their knowledge of arthritis management all contribute to the overall quality of care. A shortage of PCPs or a lack of awareness about arthritis can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting the Arthritis Score. Assessing the number of PCPs per capita, their referral patterns, and their familiarity with arthritis-related medications are all important considerations.

To further enhance the Arthritis Score analysis, the following data points should be considered. The average wait time for appointments with specialists, the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, the practice's adherence to national guidelines for arthritis treatment, and the patient satisfaction scores. These factors provide a more complete picture of the quality and accessibility of care.

The evaluation of the Arthritis Score necessitates the gathering of data from various sources. This includes public health records, physician directories, insurance provider databases, and patient feedback platforms. The information must be analyzed systematically to arrive at an informed assessment. The final Arthritis Score would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the various factors discussed. The higher the score, the better the access to care and the quality of arthritis treatment in the region.

In conclusion, evaluating the Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 26283 and primary care availability in Montrose involves a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The overall score reflects the quality and accessibility of arthritis care in the area.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Montrose and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources, helping to identify areas with limited access to care and supporting informed decision-making.