28086, Kings Mountain, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28086, Kings Mountain, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.10 percent of the residents in 28086 has some form of health insurance. 41.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.35 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 28086 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28086. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,396 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,447 health care providers accessible to residents in 28086, Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28086 & Primary Care Availability in Kings Mountain**

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28086, encompassing Kings Mountain, North Carolina, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This evaluation considers factors crucial for timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being.

Kings Mountain, nestled in Cleveland County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with demographic factors, influences the availability and distribution of medical resources. Lung cancer, a significant health concern, necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

**Primary Care Availability: The Foundation of Early Detection**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in early lung cancer detection. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the likelihood of individuals undergoing regular screenings and promptly addressing concerning symptoms. In Kings Mountain (28086), the density of PCPs is a critical factor. A higher concentration of PCPs translates to easier access for patients, facilitating routine check-ups and preventative care, including discussions about lung cancer risk factors and screening recommendations.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the number of PCPs per capita, assessing whether the current supply meets the community's demand. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is evaluated. Are they clustered in specific areas, potentially creating access barriers for residents in more remote locations? The analysis also considers the acceptance of new patients by these practices. Practices with open availability are more likely to provide timely care.

The quality of primary care also plays a role. Does the primary care physician offer in-house lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose CT scans? This is a significant advantage, streamlining the diagnostic process. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs within primary care practices will positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: Assessing Resource Adequacy**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric for evaluating healthcare resource adequacy. A favorable ratio suggests that physicians have manageable patient loads, allowing for more individualized attention and potentially improved patient outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

In the context of lung cancer, this ratio is particularly important. Timely access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of these specialists within or in close proximity to ZIP code 28086. This includes assessing the number of pulmonologists and oncologists per capita, as well as their geographic distribution.

The analysis also considers the availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and respiratory therapists. These professionals play a vital role in supporting physicians and providing comprehensive care. Adequate staffing levels contribute to a more efficient and patient-centered healthcare system.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Centers of Excellence**

Within ZIP code 28086, certain practices may stand out for their commitment to lung cancer care. These "centers of excellence" may possess specific attributes that enhance the "Lung Cancer Score." These attributes may include:

* **Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities:** Practices equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as advanced CT scanners, are better positioned to detect lung cancer at earlier stages.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Practices that foster collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists provide a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to patient care.
* **Patient Education and Support:** Practices that offer robust patient education programs, support groups, and resources for navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment and recovery demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being.
* **Participation in Clinical Trials:** Practices that participate in clinical trials provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancing lung cancer research.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will identify and recognize these standout practices, highlighting their contributions to the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access to Care**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in ZIP code 28086 can significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists.

The analysis will assess the extent to which practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from medical centers or who have mobility limitations.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on patients' mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the community, including:

* **Psychiatrists and Therapists:** The number of mental health professionals available to provide counseling and support to patients.
* **Support Groups:** The presence of support groups for lung cancer patients and their families, providing a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
* **Psychiatric Services:** Mental health services for those dealing with cancer.
* **Mental Health Support:** Resources and services to support the mental health of patients and their families.

The availability of these resources will positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score," reflecting the community's commitment to addressing the holistic needs of lung cancer patients.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28086, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement. This analysis underscores the importance of robust primary care availability, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health resources. By addressing these factors, the community can enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kings Mountain and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their maps offer valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare services, empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health.