28360, Lumberton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina is 20 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.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28360)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Lumberton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28360) requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates examining the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A comprehensive analysis reveals both strengths and weaknesses, painting a picture of the healthcare environment within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio generally signifies greater access, meaning more physicians are available to serve a given population. Determining the precise ratio for ZIP code 28360 requires accessing data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, based on broader regional trends, Lumberton, like many rural areas, likely faces a challenge in this regard. The scarcity of physicians, particularly primary care providers, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system. It provides the first point of contact for patients, offering preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Assessing primary care availability involves identifying the number of practicing primary care physicians (family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners) within the ZIP code. It also includes evaluating the capacity of existing practices, such as the number of patients each physician sees and the acceptance of new patients. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community health centers can significantly impact primary care access, especially for underserved populations. These centers often provide comprehensive services on a sliding fee scale, making healthcare more affordable.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating factors beyond mere physician numbers. Quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative technologies are crucial considerations. Patient reviews, gathered from online platforms and patient surveys, offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Accreditation status from organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) can indicate a commitment to quality and safety. Practices that embrace technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, often streamline operations and improve communication, leading to better patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. It offers a means to overcome geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and primary care physicians remotely. The extent of telemedicine integration within Lumberton's healthcare system can be gauged by examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and the use of telehealth platforms by local practices. The adoption of telemedicine can enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. However, successful implementation requires adequate internet connectivity, patient and provider training, and adherence to privacy regulations.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Lumberton involves identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and other mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code. It also requires evaluating the availability of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. The presence of crisis intervention services and access to substance abuse treatment programs are crucial for addressing the multifaceted needs of the community. The integration of mental health services within primary care settings, where patients can receive both physical and mental healthcare in a coordinated manner, can improve outcomes.

The overall health score for Lumberton (ZIP Code 28360) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the specific score requires detailed data analysis, the likely challenges include a potentially unfavorable physician-to-patient ratio and the need for increased access to mental health services. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of community health centers may mitigate some of these challenges. The quality of care offered by individual practices and the level of patient satisfaction are also critical components of the overall health assessment.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Lumberton is a dynamic process. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to track changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This continuous evaluation allows for informed decision-making and targeted interventions to improve the health and well-being of the community. The data gathered can inform public health initiatives, healthcare policy decisions, and the allocation of resources to address identified needs.

The health of a community is not solely determined by the availability of medical professionals and resources. Socioeconomic factors, such as income levels, education, and access to healthy food, also play a significant role. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving overall health outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system.

A deeper dive into the specifics of Lumberton's healthcare landscape would benefit from a visual representation. Mapping the locations of healthcare providers, identifying areas with limited access to care, and visualizing the distribution of social determinants of health can provide valuable insights.