28128, Norwood, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.98 percent of the residents in 28128 has some form of health insurance. 35.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.21 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 28128 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,559 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28128. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,245 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,118 health care providers accessible to residents in 28128, Norwood, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Norwood, NC (ZIP Code 28128)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Norwood, North Carolina (ZIP code 28128), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical factor in early detection and treatment. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components in a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for the area, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Norwood, a town nestled in Stanly County, faces the same healthcare challenges as many rural communities. A primary concern is the potential for limited access to care, which can delay diagnosis and treatment of serious illnesses like lung cancer. The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals to specialists are paramount. The success of these efforts hinges on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their ability to provide timely and comprehensive services.

One of the key metrics for assessing healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure indicates the number of patients served by each physician. A higher ratio can suggest a heavier workload for individual doctors, potentially impacting the time they can dedicate to each patient and the ease with which patients can secure appointments. Unfortunately, publicly available data on precise physician-to-patient ratios specific to Norwood (ZIP code 28128) is often limited. However, we can utilize county-level data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau to estimate the local situation. If Stanly County, as a whole, exhibits a ratio lower than the national average, it might indicate a potential shortage of PCPs in Norwood, which is a concern.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often serve as models for quality care. We'll consider factors like the availability of on-site diagnostic services (e.g., X-rays, blood tests), the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved patient data management and care coordination, and the practice's commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients. Practices that actively participate in community outreach and health education initiatives also receive positive consideration. We can look for practices that are part of larger healthcare networks, as these often have access to more resources and specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide access to specialist opinions through telemedicine can improve patient outcomes. We'll assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices, including the types of services provided (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), the ease of use for patients, and the practice's integration of telemedicine into its overall care delivery model.

The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable, particularly for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive lung cancer care system. We will assess the availability of mental health services in Norwood, including the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, psychiatrists), the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the primary care setting. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources will be viewed favorably.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Norwood (ZIP code 28128) will be a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score will be presented on a scale, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in supporting lung cancer care. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater emphasis on preventative services, and a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be based on the available data and information. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available information and may not capture the full picture of the healthcare landscape in Norwood. The actual score will be a qualitative assessment, taking into account the available data, and is intended to provide a general overview of the situation.

To improve this analysis, further research and data collection are needed. This includes gathering more specific information on physician-to-patient ratios, identifying the specific services offered by local practices, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. Direct contact with local healthcare providers and community organizations would be beneficial to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide valuable insights into the state of lung cancer care in Norwood, NC. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this assessment can help inform efforts to improve healthcare access, promote early detection, and support the overall well-being of patients affected by lung cancer.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Norwood and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographics, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you better understand the complex factors influencing healthcare access and quality in your community.