28360, Lumberton, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.53 percent of the residents in 28360 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.58 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 28360 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,091 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28360. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,666 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,367 health care providers accessible to residents in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28360, encompassing Lumberton, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. This evaluation considers the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial factor in early detection and ongoing management, and the overall quality of care accessible to patients. This is not a formal medical ranking, but an observational analysis of the healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. In Lumberton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical consideration. A low ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians serving a larger population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced preventative screenings, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. The specific physician-to-patient ratio in 28360 fluctuates, influenced by factors such as physician retirement, relocation, and population growth. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau provides a baseline understanding, though this data is often retrospective.

The presence of standout practices within the ZIP code is another key factor. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, integrating breast cancer screening protocols, such as mammograms, into their routine checkups. They may also offer patient education programs, support groups, and referral networks to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. Identifying these practices involves researching patient reviews, examining the scope of services offered, and assessing the practice’s integration within the broader healthcare ecosystem. Does the practice participate in local health initiatives or partner with community organizations?

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on breast cancer care is significant. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and receive support without the need for travel. This is especially beneficial for patients in rural areas like Lumberton, where access to specialized care can be limited. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 28360 varies. Some practices have embraced telehealth platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, while others may still be in the early stages of implementation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are integral to breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health support, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for patients’ overall well-being. The availability of these resources in Lumberton is a critical factor in the quality of care. Does the primary care practice have mental health professionals on staff or strong referral networks? Are there local support groups or community organizations that offer mental health services?

The analysis of breast cancer care in Lumberton also considers the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography and ultrasound. Timely access to these services is essential for early detection. The presence of accredited imaging centers within the ZIP code, along with their capacity to handle a high volume of patients, directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis. Furthermore, the quality of the imaging equipment and the expertise of the radiologists interpreting the results are critical factors in ensuring accurate and reliable diagnoses.

Another critical aspect of the analysis is the integration of care across different healthcare providers. Effective breast cancer care requires seamless coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and support services. This integration is often facilitated by electronic health records (EHRs), which enable healthcare providers to share patient information securely and efficiently. The extent to which practices in Lumberton utilize EHRs and participate in care coordination initiatives directly impacts the quality and continuity of care.

The cost of care is a significant barrier for many patients. The analysis considers the affordability of breast cancer care in Lumberton, including the cost of primary care visits, diagnostic tests, treatments, and medications. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers is a crucial factor. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals, cancer organizations, and government agencies, is also considered.

The analysis also examines the patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the waiting times in the waiting room, the communication skills of the healthcare providers, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Patient reviews, surveys, and feedback mechanisms provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The practices that prioritize patient-centered care, providing clear communication, empathy, and support, often achieve higher levels of patient satisfaction.

The quality of breast cancer care in Lumberton is a complex interplay of factors, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, diagnostic imaging services, care coordination, cost of care, and patient experience. The specific practices and healthcare providers in the area are constantly evolving. A comprehensive assessment requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation of these factors.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lumberton, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and imaging centers, and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to analyze the geographic distribution of services and identify potential gaps in care.