31321, Pembroke, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.14 percent of the residents in 31321 has some form of health insurance. 39.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.38 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 31321 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31321. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,330 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 259 health care providers accessible to residents in 31321, Pembroke, Georgia.

## Lung Cancer Score: Pembroke, GA (ZIP Code 31321)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality within Pembroke, Georgia (ZIP Code 31321) is crucial for understanding the potential challenges and opportunities related to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis focuses on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, facilitated by a strong primary care network, significantly improves patient outcomes. In Pembroke, evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder timely access to care. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates proactive screening and prompt referrals to specialists if a lung cancer concern arises.

Further complicating this picture is the geographic distribution of primary care practices. Are practices concentrated in one area, or are they spread throughout the community, ensuring accessibility for all residents? Proximity to care is a significant factor, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is another important consideration. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and play a vital role in ensuring equitable access to care.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the local healthcare system actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Are PCPs trained in recognizing early symptoms of lung cancer and equipped to order appropriate diagnostic tests? The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability between different healthcare providers is another critical factor. Seamless data sharing between PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists is essential for coordinated care and optimal patient management.

Pembroke’s healthcare landscape also includes specialists. Access to pulmonologists, who specialize in lung diseases, and oncologists, who specialize in cancer treatment, is vital for lung cancer patients. Assessing the availability of these specialists, including their geographic proximity and wait times for appointments, is crucial. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage, providing access to advanced diagnostic tools, treatment options, and supportive care services.

Telemedicine adoption presents a unique opportunity to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural communities like Pembroke. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. The level of telemedicine adoption among local healthcare providers, including the availability of virtual appointments and the use of remote monitoring technologies, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care. The availability of reliable internet access for patients is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for supporting patients and their families. Assessing the availability of these resources within the community, including their accessibility, cost, and cultural sensitivity, is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support, is a key factor in improving patient outcomes.

Standout practices within Pembroke, or in nearby areas accessible to Pembroke residents, can significantly influence the overall quality of care. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is vital. These practices may have implemented innovative approaches to patient care, such as patient navigators who guide patients through the complex healthcare system. They may also have a strong focus on patient education and support. The presence of these standout practices can elevate the overall Lung Cancer Score.

To calculate a "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke, a weighted approach is used. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care accessibility, and specialist availability are assigned significant weight. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resources are also considered, albeit with slightly lower weights. Each factor is assessed based on available data, including information from the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and publicly available physician directories. The score reflects the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care within the community.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be a numerical representation of the healthcare environment in Pembroke, GA (ZIP Code 31321), and its ability to address the needs of lung cancer patients. The score will provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will highlight areas of strength and identify areas needing improvement. The score will also serve as a benchmark for tracking progress over time.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Pembroke is paramount for addressing the challenges of lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive assessment of the resources and access to care within the community. For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources and their geographic distribution, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital locations, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful visualization tool that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pembroke, GA, and its surrounding areas.