28609, Catawba, North Carolina Type 2 Diabetes Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Type 2 Diabetes Score in 28609, Catawba, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 28609 has some form of health insurance. 36.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.72 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 28609 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,096 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28609. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,410 health care providers accessible to residents in 28609, Catawba, North Carolina.

The analysis of Type 2 Diabetes care within ZIP Code 28609, encompassing the city of Conover, North Carolina, and the broader context of primary care availability in Catawba County, requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating the quality of care for individuals managing diabetes involves assessing several key factors, including physician accessibility, the presence of specialized services, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all within a framework of population health needs.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In Catawba County, and specifically within the 28609 ZIP code, determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is vital. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau must be cross-referenced to estimate the number of primary care physicians practicing within the area and the population they serve. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up care, essential for effective diabetes management.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in diabetes care, can be identified through several metrics. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through healthcare providers or third-party rating sites, offer insights into patient experiences. Practices that consistently receive high marks for communication, empathy, and the effectiveness of treatment plans are strong contenders. Furthermore, examining the practices' adherence to established diabetes care guidelines, such as those set by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), is crucial. This includes evaluating the frequency of A1c testing, foot exams, eye screenings, and the provision of diabetes education. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes, such as improved blood sugar control and reduced complications, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telehealth appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and diabetes education are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The ease of use of the telehealth platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telehealth services into the overall care plan are important considerations.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of diabetes care. Individuals with diabetes are at an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, which can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition effectively. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their diabetes care programs, such as providing access to therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to patient well-being. This may involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to external providers, or the use of digital mental health tools. The presence of diabetes support groups and educational programs addressing the psychological aspects of the disease further enhances the quality of care.

The analysis of primary care availability in Catawba County must consider the geographic distribution of physicians. Are primary care practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Examining the proximity of practices to residents in the 28609 ZIP code and other areas of Catawba County is essential. This includes assessing the availability of transportation options for patients, such as public transportation or ride-sharing services. Furthermore, the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is a key factor, ensuring that patients can access care within their financial constraints.

Specific practices within the 28609 ZIP code that should be evaluated include those with the highest patient volumes, the longest-standing presence in the community, and those that are part of larger healthcare systems. These practices often have the resources and infrastructure to provide comprehensive diabetes care. The evaluation should include a review of their websites, patient testimonials, and publicly available information about their services.

The assessment of diabetes care also necessitates an understanding of the local population's demographics and health needs. Catawba County has a specific population profile, and the prevalence of diabetes may vary within different demographic groups. Analyzing data on the prevalence of diabetes, the rates of complications, and the utilization of healthcare services can inform the development of targeted interventions and improve the effectiveness of care. This includes identifying disparities in access to care and addressing the unique needs of specific populations.

The evaluation of the diabetes care landscape should also consider the role of community resources. Local health departments, community health centers, and non-profit organizations often play a vital role in providing diabetes education, support groups, and other services. Assessing the collaboration between primary care practices and these community resources is crucial for ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to diabetes care.

The availability of specialized services, such as endocrinologists, diabetes educators, and registered dietitians, is a key indicator of the quality of diabetes care. The presence of these specialists within the 28609 ZIP code or nearby areas significantly enhances the ability of primary care physicians to provide comprehensive care. The ease of access to these specialists, including the waiting times for appointments and the referral processes, should be evaluated.

The analysis should also assess the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies to improve diabetes care. EHRs can facilitate the sharing of patient information between providers, improve care coordination, and enable the tracking of patient outcomes. The use of remote monitoring devices, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), can empower patients to manage their blood sugar levels more effectively. Practices that are early adopters of these technologies are often at the forefront of providing high-quality diabetes care.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of Type 2 Diabetes care in the 28609 ZIP code and the broader context of Catawba County requires a comprehensive assessment of physician accessibility, practice performance, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. This complex assessment, involving the collection and analysis of data from multiple sources, is essential to inform the development of strategies to improve diabetes care and reduce the burden of this chronic disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 28609 ZIP code and Catawba County, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.