28304, Fayetteville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28304, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.12 percent of the residents in 28304 has some form of health insurance. 43.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.71 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 28304 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,783 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28304. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,072 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,617 health care providers accessible to residents in 28304, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28304) – A Comprehensive Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 28304 ZIP code in Fayetteville, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. The goal is to offer a practical overview, not a definitive ranking, but rather a comparative assessment of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios represent a fundamental metric in assessing healthcare accessibility. In 28304, the density of primary care physicians influences the ease with which patients can secure appointments, receive timely screenings, and establish ongoing relationships with their providers. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more doctors per capita, generally translates to improved access. The specific ratio in this area must be considered against the backdrop of the overall population's health needs, including factors such as age distribution, prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic demographics, which can all influence the demand for primary care services. Areas with a higher concentration of elderly residents, for example, might experience greater demand for primary care, potentially straining physician resources.

Standout practices within the 28304 ZIP code contribute significantly to the quality of lung cancer care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, including implementing robust screening programs for at-risk individuals. This may involve actively identifying and contacting patients who meet the criteria for lung cancer screening, such as those with a history of smoking. These practices also tend to prioritize patient education, providing information about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is a hallmark of high-quality lung cancer care. Furthermore, these practices may actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contributing to the advancement of lung cancer research.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in evaluating lung cancer care. Telemedicine expands access to care, particularly for patients who face geographic barriers or mobility limitations. It facilitates virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for managing symptoms, providing emotional support, and delivering education about treatment options. The degree to which practices within 28304 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring technologies, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care for patients.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial element of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients' emotional well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or partnerships with external mental health organizations, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ease with which patients can access these resources, including the availability of appointments and the affordability of services, significantly impacts their overall quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Assessing the healthcare landscape in 28304 necessitates a nuanced understanding of the interplay between these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio is beneficial, but it's not the only determinant of quality. The presence of standout practices that prioritize preventive care, patient education, and access to innovative treatments can significantly enhance patient outcomes. The adoption of telemedicine can improve access and convenience, while the availability of mental health resources is critical for supporting patients' emotional well-being. The integration of these elements creates a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to lung cancer care.

Evaluating the lung cancer care landscape in 28304 also requires considering the specific needs of the population. Factors such as the prevalence of smoking, the age distribution of the population, and socioeconomic demographics can all influence the demand for and the accessibility of care. Areas with a higher prevalence of smoking, for example, may require more robust screening programs and smoking cessation support services. Understanding these nuances is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in 28304 must consider the combined impact of these factors. Practices that excel in multiple areas, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration, are likely to provide the highest quality of care. The absence of any of these elements could potentially impact the quality of care received by patients. The goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and the overall well-being of patients.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in 28304 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the specific details of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability will vary, understanding these elements provides a valuable framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. The aim is to ensure that patients in this community have access to the best possible care, from early detection and diagnosis to comprehensive treatment and ongoing support.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Fayetteville, NC, and see how these factors play out geographically? Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain deeper insights into physician locations, access to care, and other critical health indicators.