28212, Charlotte, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28212, Charlotte, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.98 percent of the residents in 28212 has some form of health insurance. 36.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.07 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 28212 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12,742 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 83 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28212. An estimate of 68 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,963 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 58,146 health care providers accessible to residents in 28212, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: 28212 Physicians and Charlotte Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28212 and the broader context of primary care availability in Charlotte, North Carolina. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician access, quality of care, and supportive resources. This assessment moves beyond simple rankings, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and proactive primary care. Within Charlotte, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of early detection and timely intervention. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, general estimates suggest a potential strain on resources. This strain can manifest in longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. The ability to secure a timely appointment with a PCP for a cough, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms is paramount. Delays in this initial point of contact can have a cascading effect, impacting the speed at which patients receive specialist referrals and, ultimately, treatment.

Within the 28212 ZIP code, the specific distribution of PCPs is a crucial factor. Are there areas within the ZIP code that are underserved, with limited access to primary care? This geographic disparity could create inequities in access to care, potentially leading to later-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes for some residents. The concentration of practices, the types of insurance accepted, and the availability of evening or weekend appointments are all vital considerations when evaluating access.

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that emphasize preventive care, including lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers), are crucial. These screenings, often involving low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, can detect lung cancer at earlier stages, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment. Practices that actively engage in patient education about smoking cessation and the risks of lung cancer also contribute significantly to a positive "Lung Cancer Score."

The adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices is another important factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to increase access to care, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in areas with limited access to healthcare providers. Telemedicine can be used for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Specialist care is another key component of a robust lung cancer care system. The availability of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is essential for providing comprehensive care. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices within 28212 and Charlotte is a significant factor. The ease with which PCPs can refer patients to specialists, and the efficiency of the referral process, can impact the speed with which patients receive the specialized care they need.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are an integral part of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to support groups, counseling, and psychiatric services.

While a formal ranking of "standout practices" requires a detailed review of patient outcomes, patient satisfaction surveys, and other metrics, some practices may stand out based on their commitment to innovation, patient-centered care, and community outreach. These practices might be recognized for their proactive approach to lung cancer screening, their use of telemedicine, or their integration of mental health services. Identifying these "best practices" can help other practices learn and improve their own services.

The integration of palliative care services is another important consideration. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. It is not the same as hospice care, but it can be offered alongside curative treatments. Practices that offer palliative care services can help patients manage pain, improve their quality of life, and navigate the complex challenges of lung cancer treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis also considers the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, patient navigators, and financial assistance resources. These services can help patients overcome barriers to care and improve their overall well-being. Smoking cessation programs are particularly important, as they can help patients quit smoking and reduce their risk of developing new cancers. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and access financial assistance.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 28212 and Charlotte is a complex assessment, influenced by numerous interacting factors. The availability of PCPs, the quality of primary care, the access to specialists, the integration of mental health services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of support services all contribute to the overall score. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identifies areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape within 28212 and Charlotte, including the precise locations of physician practices, the types of services offered, and potential geographic disparities, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations.