28282, Charlotte, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28282, Charlotte, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 28282 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28282 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28282. An estimate of 19 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,340 health care providers accessible to residents in 28282, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Charlotte's 28282 and Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within the 28282 ZIP code of Charlotte, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the availability and quality of physicians but also the broader context of primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific area, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of skilled physicians. In 28282, the physician-to-patient ratio for pulmonologists and oncologists becomes a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of specialists relative to the population, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Researching the exact figures for this ZIP code is crucial. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the American Medical Association, coupled with local hospital affiliations, can reveal the number of specialists practicing within the area. This data, however, needs to be contextualized. Consider the population density of 28282 and its surrounding areas. A rural setting would necessitate a different interpretation than a densely populated urban environment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices and physicians involves examining their credentials, experience, and patient outcomes. This involves looking at board certifications, years of experience, and, where available, patient satisfaction scores and reviews. Hospitals like Atrium Health and Novant Health, which likely serve patients in this area, should be investigated for their lung cancer programs. Look for accreditations from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. These accreditations signify adherence to high standards of care, including multidisciplinary teams, comprehensive treatment options, and patient support services.

Primary care availability is another critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score." Early detection is key to improving lung cancer survival rates. Accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. A robust primary care system, with readily available appointments and a focus on preventive care, increases the likelihood of timely screenings and referrals to specialists. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs or barriers to access, such as long wait times or lack of insurance coverage, can significantly delay diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is revolutionizing healthcare delivery, and its impact on lung cancer care is significant. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, particularly for patients in underserved areas or with mobility limitations. It can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients' health. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among pulmonologists and oncologists in 28282 is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered, the technology used, and the patient experience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be more accessible and patient-centered.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Integrating mental health resources into the care pathway is essential for patient well-being. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Assessing the availability of these resources in 28282 involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and hospital-based programs. Practices that actively screen for mental health needs and offer or refer patients to these resources are likely to provide more comprehensive and patient-centered care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28282, therefore, is not a simple numerical rating. It is a composite assessment based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of specialists, the accessibility of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality of care available to patients in this area.

For example, a hypothetical scenario might involve a relatively good physician-to-patient ratio for pulmonologists but a shortage of PCPs, long wait times for appointments, and limited telemedicine adoption. This would negatively impact the score, even if the pulmonologists are highly skilled. Conversely, a practice with a strong focus on patient support, telemedicine capabilities, and a network of mental health providers could significantly improve the score, even if the physician-to-patient ratio is slightly less favorable.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the area. Are there disparities in access to care based on income, race, or ethnicity? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to high-quality lung cancer care for all residents of 28282.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a holistic approach, considering the availability, quality, and accessibility of healthcare resources within the specific geographic context of 28282. It's a dynamic assessment that needs continuous updating, reflecting changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and evolving best practices in lung cancer care.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of Charlotte, including the distribution of specialists, primary care access points, and the location of support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.