28160, Spindale, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28160, Spindale, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.89 percent of the residents in 28160 has some form of health insurance. 40.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.40 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 28160 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 379 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28160. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 803 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 486 health care providers accessible to residents in 28160, Spindale, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28160 & Primary Care in Spindale

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28160, focusing on the availability of primary care in Spindale, North Carolina. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. This assessment will help inform patients and healthcare providers about the strengths and weaknesses of the current system.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Spindale, within ZIP code 28160, requires a detailed examination of its primary care infrastructure. The initial step involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients at risk of or battling lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, allowing for more frequent screenings, early detection, and timely referrals to specialists. The current ratio must be compared against state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care services.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of physicians, the breadth of services offered, and the integration of technology. Standout practices in Spindale will be those that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and preventative care. This means actively promoting lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. These practices will also prioritize patient education, providing resources and support to help individuals understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health. Furthermore, effective communication and coordination between primary care physicians and specialists are essential for seamless patient care.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Spindale. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. This is particularly important for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or other challenges that make in-person visits difficult. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The degree to which primary care practices in Spindale have embraced telemedicine is a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care is crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Addressing the psychological and emotional needs of patients can improve their quality of life and enhance their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer. The presence of mental health support services is a key indicator of a well-rounded and patient-centered approach to care.

Specific examples of standout practices in Spindale, if available, would be highlighted. These practices will likely exhibit several key characteristics: a strong emphasis on preventative care, a commitment to patient education, efficient referral systems, and a dedication to utilizing technology to improve patient outcomes. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about lung cancer and promoting early detection strategies. The presence of these attributes differentiates practices that are truly committed to providing exceptional care.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within or near ZIP code 28160. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The proximity of these specialists, and the efficiency of referral pathways, significantly impact patient outcomes. Delays in accessing specialized care can lead to poorer prognoses. The analysis will assess the accessibility of these specialists, considering factors such as travel time, appointment availability, and insurance coverage.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. These services may include support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. These resources can provide invaluable support to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of cancer treatment and recovery. The presence of these support services indicates a comprehensive approach to patient care.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28160 will be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialized care, and the presence of support services. The score will provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score will be relative, allowing for comparison against other areas and tracking of progress over time.

The analysis will also address potential barriers to care. This includes socioeconomic factors, such as income and insurance coverage, which can significantly impact access to healthcare. Addressing these barriers is essential for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Spindale and the surrounding areas. The analysis will identify any disparities in access to care and suggest strategies for addressing them.

The final report will summarize the findings, providing a clear and concise overview of the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 28160. It will highlight the strengths of the local healthcare system and identify areas where improvements are needed. The report will also offer recommendations for improving patient outcomes, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources into primary care.

The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions about lung cancer care in Spindale. This analysis serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare in the region. The data will be continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to track progress towards improving patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28160, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Uncover the data and gain a clearer perspective.