39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.51 percent of the residents in 39455 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.24 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 39455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39455. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,500 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Lumberton, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39455)

Lumberton, Mississippi, nestled within the 39455 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape, particularly when considering the needs of individuals living with arthritis. This analysis seeks to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized arthritis care, and the overall support system for patients managing this chronic condition. The analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective arthritis management often rests on the strength of primary care. In Lumberton, the availability of primary care physicians serves as the initial filter. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create significant barriers to accessing timely care. Data on this ratio is essential. Publicly available information, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), or state medical boards, can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 39455 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This raw data, combined with population figures, allows for a preliminary assessment of access. A favorable ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and more opportunities for preventative care and early diagnosis, crucial for arthritis management.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Are the practices equipped to handle the initial assessment of potential arthritis cases? Do they offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day availability? These factors significantly impact patient convenience and the ability to seek prompt medical attention. Practices that proactively screen for arthritis symptoms, offer patient education materials, and have established referral pathways to rheumatologists will score higher in this analysis. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, the quality of care provided, and the overall patient experience.

Specialized arthritis care, specifically the presence of rheumatologists, is another critical component of the "Arthritis Score." Rheumatologists are medical doctors specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The availability of a rheumatologist within the 39455 ZIP code or in nearby communities is a key factor. The distance a patient must travel to see a specialist can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition effectively. Longer travel times can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a diminished quality of life.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a modern approach to healthcare delivery, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments or medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, will receive a higher score. This technology can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas.

The mental health of individuals with arthritis is often overlooked, yet it is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can significantly impact a patient's mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an important consideration. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to mental health professionals, will score higher. The presence of local support groups, such as those affiliated with the Arthritis Foundation, can also provide valuable peer support and educational resources.

Standout practices within the 39455 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. These practices often exhibit several key characteristics. They may have a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, nurses, and potentially a physical therapist. They may offer specialized services, such as on-site X-ray facilities, infusion therapy, or access to clinical trials. They may also have a strong focus on patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their condition and manage their symptoms effectively.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Lumberton will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable healthcare environment for arthritis patients, characterized by a strong primary care foundation, readily available rheumatology services, the adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources. A low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and a lower quality of life for individuals living with arthritis.

The challenges of assessing the healthcare landscape of a specific ZIP code like 39455 highlight the need for robust data and analytical tools. The availability of real-time information on physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient outcomes is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation. The "Arthritis Score" is a hypothetical construct, but it underscores the importance of a data-driven approach to healthcare planning and delivery.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lumberton and the surrounding areas, and to visualize the location of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer powerful visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare data and gain valuable insights into the availability and accessibility of care.