28034, Dallas, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28034, Dallas, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.81 percent of the residents in 28034 has some form of health insurance. 37.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.84 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 28034 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28034. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,833 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,730 health care providers accessible to residents in 28034, Dallas, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Dallas, NC (ZIP Code 28034) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 28034 ZIP code of Dallas, North Carolina, considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The score reflects the availability of resources and the quality of care, with a focus on primary care's crucial role in early detection and management. The analysis also examines the broader primary care landscape in Dallas, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all of which contribute to the overall effectiveness of lung cancer care.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection of lung cancer is paramount, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. This necessitates a proactive approach to screening, including adherence to guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The availability of these screening services, along with physician awareness and patient education about risk factors (smoking history, exposure to radon, etc.), significantly impacts the score.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 28034 are a critical component. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio allows for more personalized care and more frequent check-ins, which are essential for monitoring at-risk patients and facilitating early detection. Data on the current ratio, compared to state and national averages, is essential for a complete evaluation.

Standout practices within the 28034 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes practices that actively participate in continuing medical education on lung cancer screening and treatment, those that have established protocols for referring patients to pulmonologists and oncologists, and those that provide patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores, particularly regarding communication, empathy, and the thoroughness of examinations, also contribute to the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and discussing test results, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between primary care physicians and specialists, streamlining the referral process and improving care coordination. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are viewed favorably in this assessment.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams or have established strong referral networks to mental health specialists receive a higher score. This integration ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs.

Beyond the individual practices, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Dallas, NC, plays a significant role. The presence of nearby hospitals and cancer centers with specialized lung cancer treatment programs is crucial. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and bronchoscopies, and the expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists are essential for providing comprehensive care. The Lung Cancer Score also considers the existence of support groups and patient education programs within the community.

The evaluation of each practice and the overall landscape requires a multi-faceted approach. Data collection includes gathering information on physician qualifications, screening protocols, referral patterns, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support services. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the North Carolina Medical Board, and patient review websites is analyzed. Direct outreach to primary care practices may also be necessary to gather specific information.

The final Lung Cancer Score is a composite measure, weighting various factors based on their importance. Early detection and screening protocols carry significant weight, as they are critical for improving patient outcomes. Physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support services are also given considerable weight, reflecting their impact on access to care and patient well-being. The score is presented on a scale, providing a clear indication of the overall quality of lung cancer care available in the 28034 ZIP code.

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape in Dallas, NC, as it relates to lung cancer care. The goal is to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, fostering improvements in access, quality, and patient outcomes. By highlighting areas for improvement, such as increasing screening rates, expanding telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health support, this analysis can contribute to a healthier community.

To further visualize and understand the geographic distribution of these factors and the overall Lung Cancer Score, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and interactive representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest needs and opportunities for improvement.