31537, Folkston, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31537, Folkston, Georgia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.15 percent of the residents in 31537 has some form of health insurance. 38.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.48 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 31537 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,791 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31537. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 184 health care providers accessible to residents in 31537, Folkston, Georgia.

## Lung Cancer Score: Folkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 31537)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, within Folkston, Georgia (ZIP code 31537) presents a complex challenge. This analysis will attempt to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. It will focus on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and identify standout practices.

Folkston, a rural community, likely faces significant hurdles in healthcare access. The primary care physician landscape is critical. A low density of primary care providers directly impacts the ability of residents to receive routine screenings, including those for lung cancer. Early detection is crucial for improved outcomes. Without readily available primary care, individuals may delay seeking care, leading to later-stage diagnoses and poorer prognoses. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Folkston is essential. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) signals potential challenges in securing timely appointments, impacting the ability to receive prompt diagnostic testing and treatment.

The availability of primary care in Folkston, and the surrounding areas, is a cornerstone of this analysis. The ability to schedule appointments, receive timely referrals to specialists (such as pulmonologists and oncologists), and access follow-up care are all vital. If primary care resources are scarce, patients may have to travel considerable distances for essential services, adding to the burden of illness and potentially delaying crucial care. This also impacts the ability to manage the side effects of treatment and provide ongoing support.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in bridging the geographical barriers that often plague rural communities. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive counseling, and monitor health conditions via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, will be a key consideration. The availability of telehealth services can also reduce the need for travel, saving time and money for patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are critical for patient well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis, and its subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, in Folkston is therefore a key factor. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the availability of readily accessible referrals, are important indicators of a supportive healthcare environment.

Identifying standout practices within the 31537 ZIP code is a key goal. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care will be highlighted. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, provide resources on smoking cessation, and offer support groups or counseling services. The practices that have integrated telehealth and mental health services will also be recognized. These practices serve as models for other providers in the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Folkston, Georgia, will be a composite assessment based on these factors. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing care, while a high score would reflect a more supportive and comprehensive healthcare environment. It is important to note that this score is an estimation, and a comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio suggests a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This impacts the overall quality of care. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a factor. If patients must travel long distances for specialized care, it can add to the burden of illness.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from medical facilities. The availability of telehealth services can also reduce the need for travel, saving time and money for patients.

The availability of mental health resources is another important consideration. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the availability of readily accessible referrals, are important indicators of a supportive healthcare environment.

The lack of access to resources, such as support groups and educational materials, can also negatively impact the patient experience. Practices that provide these resources are better equipped to support their patients.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Folkston, Georgia (31537), is likely impacted by the rural nature of the area. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. The ability to receive timely screenings, access specialized care, and receive comprehensive support are all important considerations.

For a more in-depth understanding of healthcare access and resources in Folkston, Georgia, including the location of medical facilities, physician availability, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling you to identify areas with high and low access to care.