30102, Acworth, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 30102, Acworth, Georgia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.06 percent of the residents in 30102 has some form of health insurance. 24.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.26 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 30102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,448 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 30102. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,630 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 61,265 health care providers accessible to residents in 30102, Acworth, Georgia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Acworth, GA (ZIP Code 30102)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Acworth, Georgia (ZIP Code 30102). The focus is on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing patient outcomes. The analysis will provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on these elements.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gateway to healthcare, often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. The accessibility of PCPs significantly impacts early detection and timely intervention. In Acworth, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 30102 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Georgia Department of Public Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, can paint a picture of access. The analysis considers the number of practicing PCPs, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine specialists within the zip code, relative to the population size. A lower ratio, ideally below the national average, would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a high ratio would negatively impact the score, suggesting potential barriers to timely care.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Within Acworth, certain primary care practices may distinguish themselves in terms of their lung cancer-related services. These practices might excel in several areas. They might have a proactive approach to screening, especially for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history). They might use electronic health records to track patient risk factors and schedule appropriate screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans.

Other standout practices might have established strong referral networks with pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, ensuring seamless transitions for patients needing specialized care. The analysis will assess the presence of these referral pathways. Furthermore, practices adopting innovative technologies, such as advanced imaging equipment or telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, would be considered favorably. The Lung Cancer Score will be positively influenced by the presence of these features.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Acworth is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients' conditions, and online patient portals contribute to improved access and convenience.

The analysis will investigate the extent of telemedicine adoption within the zip code. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices for patients with lung conditions, and the ease of accessing patient portals. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, recognizing their commitment to patient convenience and potentially reducing barriers to care.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources within the Acworth community is therefore a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score.

The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the zip code and the surrounding area. The presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families is also a positive factor. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or having established referral pathways to mental health specialists, would be highly valued. A community with robust mental health support will receive a higher Lung Cancer Score, acknowledging the importance of holistic patient care.

**Specific Considerations for the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. The specific weights assigned to each factor will depend on their perceived importance in influencing patient outcomes. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care access will likely carry a significant weight, as these are fundamental to early detection. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of mental health resources will also be weighted, reflecting their contribution to patient well-being and access to care.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Acworth, GA (30102), relevant to lung cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score, derived from the factors discussed, provides a valuable assessment of the community's readiness to address this disease. The quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of technology, and the provision of mental health support are all critical elements.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources in Acworth and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, enabling informed decision-making for both patients and healthcare providers.