28167, Union Mills, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28167, Union Mills, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.36 percent of the residents in 28167 has some form of health insurance. 36.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.45 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 28167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 396 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28167. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 605 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 491 health care providers accessible to residents in 28167, Union Mills, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28167 & Primary Care Availability in Union Mills**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP code 28167 and the primary care landscape of Union Mills, North Carolina. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, focusing on factors crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of comprehensive cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios & Access to Care**

ZIP code 28167, encompassing the town of Rutherfordton, and the surrounding area, presents a unique challenge in terms of physician access. While specific, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are constantly fluctuating, the general trend in rural areas like Rutherford County often reveals a shortage of specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists. This scarcity can significantly impact the speed of diagnosis and the initiation of treatment for lung cancer patients. Delays in seeing a specialist can lead to the cancer progressing, diminishing the chances of successful intervention. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor in this equation. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through the diagnostic process and providing ongoing support.

Union Mills, a smaller community within Rutherford County, likely faces even greater challenges regarding primary care availability. The relative remoteness of Union Mills, coupled with the broader rural healthcare shortages, could mean longer travel times to access even basic medical services. This geographic barrier can exacerbate the difficulties for individuals with limited mobility or those lacking reliable transportation. The ability to secure timely appointments with a PCP is paramount, as they can facilitate early detection through screening and provide referrals to specialists.

**Standout Practices & Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the presence of board-certified specialists, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and patient satisfaction ratings. In ZIP code 28167, the presence of any practices affiliated with larger healthcare networks, such as Atrium Health or Novant Health, could indicate access to a broader range of resources and expertise. These networks often have established cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.

Beyond network affiliations, practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care are particularly valuable. This includes practices that offer comprehensive support services, such as nurse navigators who guide patients through the complexities of treatment, and support groups that provide emotional and social support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials also offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

In Union Mills, the focus would be on the closest available primary care practices. The quality of care at these practices can be assessed by examining factors such as the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the ease of communication with providers, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize preventive care, including lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, are especially critical.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**

Telemedicine offers a vital solution for addressing healthcare access issues, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in ZIP code 28167 and the surrounding areas can significantly improve access to specialists and follow-up care. Telemedicine can enable patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for long-distance travel.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace technology, and the integration of telemedicine into the existing healthcare infrastructure. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide comprehensive care.

For Union Mills residents, telemedicine can be a game-changer. It allows them to connect with specialists who may be located in larger cities or healthcare hubs without the burden of extensive travel. Telemedicine can also facilitate regular check-ins with PCPs, enabling them to monitor patients' health and provide ongoing support.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often create significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial aspect of comprehensive cancer care. Practices in ZIP code 28167 should ideally offer access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who can provide support to patients and their families.

The integration of mental health services into cancer care can take various forms, including on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, and support groups. Practices that recognize the importance of mental well-being and actively address the emotional needs of their patients are better equipped to provide holistic care.

In Union Mills, access to mental health resources may be more limited. Therefore, it is important to identify practices that have established referral networks with mental health providers in the surrounding areas. Telemedicine can also play a role in connecting patients with mental health professionals remotely, overcoming geographic barriers.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28167 and the primary care environment of Union Mills present both opportunities and challenges for individuals facing lung cancer. While the availability of specialists may be limited in this rural setting, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of supportive practices can mitigate these challenges. The quality of care is dependent on the commitment of healthcare providers to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care, including access to mental health resources. The ability to secure timely access to primary care, specialist consultations, and supportive services is paramount for successful lung cancer treatment and improved patient outcomes.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in ZIP code 28167 and Union Mills, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare providers, resources, and other relevant information, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.