28217, Charlotte, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28217, Charlotte, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.30 percent of the residents in 28217 has some form of health insurance. 31.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.33 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 28217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 83 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28217. An estimate of 68 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 52,823 health care providers accessible to residents in 28217, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28217 & Charlotte Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28217 and its connection to primary care availability in Charlotte, North Carolina. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors critical to patient outcomes, including physician access, quality of care, and supportive resources. This score, though not a numerical value, represents a qualitative evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system is readily available primary care. Charlotte, as a major metropolitan area, generally boasts a decent level of primary care availability. However, this can vary significantly within specific ZIP codes. 28217, encompassing areas like Pineville and parts of South Charlotte, presents a mixed picture. While the area benefits from proximity to larger healthcare systems, access can be strained by factors like population density, insurance coverage disparities, and the concentration of specialists in certain areas.

One crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population generally indicates better access to preventative care and early detection, both vital for lung cancer. In 28217, the ratio should be examined closely. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with local healthcare network analyses, will reveal the true picture. Areas with a lower PCP-to-patient ratio might experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care plays a pivotal role. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the practices' adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers). Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are critical. This includes educating patients about risk factors, providing clear pathways to screening, and ensuring timely follow-up for any suspicious findings.

Standout practices in the 28217 area should be identified. These are the clinics and physician groups demonstrating excellence in lung cancer care. This involves evaluating their screening rates, diagnostic capabilities (access to advanced imaging and biopsies), and referral networks to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer treatment and prevention also deserve recognition. These practices often stay at the forefront of medical advancements, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." The ability to offer virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and are actively utilizing them to support lung cancer patients deserve higher marks.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" must assess the availability of mental health services within the 28217 area. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, support groups, and other resources specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or strong referral networks, are better equipped to support their patients' overall well-being.

The referral pathways between primary care physicians and specialists are another critical aspect. Efficient and well-defined referral systems ensure that patients receive timely access to the specialized care they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" should evaluate the ease with which PCPs in 28217 can refer patients to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within the Charlotte area. This includes assessing the efficiency of communication, the availability of specialist appointments, and the coordination of care between different healthcare providers.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the availability of patient education resources. Providing patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, treatment options, and survivorship strategies is essential. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, and access to patient navigators can empower patients to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions.

Insurance coverage also plays a significant role. The "Lung Cancer Score" must acknowledge the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. Areas with a higher proportion of uninsured or underinsured individuals may face greater barriers to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The score should reflect the efforts of healthcare providers to address these disparities, such as offering financial assistance programs or participating in initiatives to expand access to care for underserved populations.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the overall patient experience. This involves assessing factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of navigating the healthcare system, the responsiveness of healthcare providers, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient feedback, obtained through surveys and other means, can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for the 28217 area and its connection to Charlotte primary care is a complex assessment requiring a multifaceted approach. It demands a thorough evaluation of physician access, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, referral pathways, patient education, insurance coverage, and the overall patient experience. A comprehensive analysis will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28217 and Charlotte, including the distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant factors, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.