30747, Summerville, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 30747, Summerville, Georgia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.20 percent of the residents in 30747 has some form of health insurance. 52.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.92 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 30747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 30747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,704 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,359 health care providers accessible to residents in 30747, Summerville, Georgia.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for Summerville, GA (ZIP Code 30747)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 30747, Summerville, Georgia, with a particular focus on primary care availability and its impact on lung cancer detection and treatment. The LCS considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients.

The foundation of a strong LCS lies in accessible primary care. Early detection is crucial for lung cancer survival, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients. The physician-to-patient ratio in Summerville is a critical metric. Data from sources like the Georgia Department of Public Health and the American Medical Association should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially delay appointments, impacting early screening and diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Evaluating the practices within the ZIP code is essential. Are there any standout primary care practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening and prevention? This involves assessing their adoption of best practices, such as adherence to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals. Practices that proactively identify and refer eligible patients for screening, and actively participate in lung cancer awareness campaigns, would receive a higher score. Reviews and patient testimonials can offer insights into the quality of care and patient experience within these practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Summerville. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and potentially facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment. The LCS should assess the availability of telemedicine services for primary care visits, specialist referrals, and post-treatment follow-up.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive LCS. The analysis needs to evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within the community. Does the primary care network have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources significantly impacts the overall LCS.

Beyond primary care, access to specialized oncology services is vital. The LCS must consider the proximity of cancer centers and oncologists to ZIP Code 30747. Travel time to these facilities can impact access to treatment, particularly for patients with mobility limitations. The availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, within a reasonable distance is a positive factor.

The LCS also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence health outcomes. The analysis should account for the percentage of the population with health insurance coverage, as this directly impacts access to screening and treatment. Socioeconomic disparities can affect access to care, and the LCS should consider initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities.

The effectiveness of public health initiatives in the area also plays a role. Does the local health department actively promote lung cancer awareness and screening? Are there programs to help people quit smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer? The presence of these initiatives contributes to a higher LCS.

Furthermore, the LCS should account for the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. Access to palliative care can help manage symptoms, reduce suffering, and provide emotional support.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in Summerville (30747) for lung cancer requires a multifaceted approach. The LCS must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to oncology services, socioeconomic factors, and the presence of public health initiatives. A comprehensive assessment of these factors will provide a more accurate picture of the community's ability to support lung cancer patients.

If you're interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape and exploring the spatial relationships between these factors, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide detailed geographic visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to understand the accessibility and distribution of care within the Summerville area.