28358, Lumberton, North Carolina Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.84 percent of the residents in 28358 has some form of health insurance. 49.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.84 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 28358 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28358. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,002 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,359 health care providers accessible to residents in 28358, Lumberton, North Carolina.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28358)

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment of primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources in Lumberton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28358), focusing on factors crucial for arthritis patients. It examines physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, offering a comprehensive overview for individuals seeking arthritis care in the area. The analysis aims to provide insights into the accessibility and quality of care available, acknowledging that a robust healthcare infrastructure is vital for managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of any arthritis care plan rests on access to a primary care physician. In Lumberton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of PCPs in the area is a key factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care. Analyzing the current ratio requires consulting data from sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau to determine the number of active PCPs in the 28358 ZIP code and compare that to the population size. This data point, along with the average appointment wait times, forms a fundamental component of the Arthritis Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the structure and characteristics of local practices significantly impact the quality of arthritis care. Large, multi-specialty practices often offer a more integrated approach, potentially housing rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists under one roof. This streamlined model can simplify referrals and improve communication between care providers, benefiting patients. The Arthritis Score considers the prevalence of these integrated practices within Lumberton, noting the presence of specialists and ancillary services within each practice. Furthermore, the score assesses the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as X-ray machines, which can expedite diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. It can reduce the burden of travel for patients, especially those with mobility issues. The Arthritis Score evaluates the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Lumberton. This includes assessing whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and electronic patient portals for communication and access to medical records. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of arthritis care. The chronic pain and limitations associated with the condition can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. The Arthritis Score assesses the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals, as well as the availability of resources such as support groups and educational materials. Practices that prioritize mental health support are recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying standout practices in Lumberton is essential for patients seeking the best possible care. The Arthritis Score considers factors such as patient reviews, physician experience, and the availability of specialized services. Practices with a proven track record of patient satisfaction, a focus on patient education, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in arthritis treatment are likely to receive higher scores. This involves reviewing online patient testimonials, evaluating the qualifications of physicians, and assessing the practice's participation in continuing medical education programs.

The overall Arthritis Score for Lumberton, NC (28358) is a composite measure that reflects the cumulative impact of these factors. A higher score indicates greater access to care, a more integrated approach to treatment, and a stronger emphasis on patient well-being. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing care and may highlight areas where improvements are needed. This assessment is not a definitive ranking but a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, providing insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The availability of primary care in Lumberton is a crucial determinant of the Arthritis Score. A robust primary care system acts as the gateway to specialized care, ensuring that patients receive timely diagnoses, appropriate referrals, and ongoing management of their condition. Factors like insurance acceptance, accessibility for patients with disabilities, and the availability of after-hours care also influence the score.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the population within the 28358 ZIP code. The prevalence of arthritis may vary based on age, ethnicity, and other factors. Understanding the specific needs of the local population is critical for tailoring healthcare services and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively. This includes assessing the availability of culturally sensitive care and language services.

The Arthritis Score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of new healthcare policies. The score serves as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, informing decisions about healthcare access, resource allocation, and quality improvement initiatives.

The data used to compile the Arthritis Score comes from a variety of sources, including public health agencies, medical boards, insurance providers, and patient feedback platforms. The accuracy and reliability of the score depend on the quality and completeness of this data. Continuous monitoring and validation are essential to ensure the score remains a trustworthy and informative resource.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score provides a valuable framework for understanding the accessibility and quality of arthritis care in Lumberton, NC (28358). It emphasizes the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. By considering these factors, the analysis offers a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Lumberton and other areas, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant information.