28306, Fayetteville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28306, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.87 percent of the residents in 28306 has some form of health insurance. 39.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.07 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 28306 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,053 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28306. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,886 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,619 health care providers accessible to residents in 28306, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28306)

Analyzing the availability of quality lung cancer care within Fayetteville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28306) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the expertise of physicians but also the accessibility of services, including primary care, telemedicine, and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on factors that directly impact patient outcomes and the overall quality of life for individuals battling this disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the strength of the primary care network. In ZIP Code 28306, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant. A robust PCP network acts as the first line of defense, responsible for early detection through screening and prompt referral to specialists. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for earlier intervention. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP Code 28306 needs to be evaluated. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and local healthcare systems would be crucial to establish an accurate baseline.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers), contribute significantly to improved outcomes. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, is essential. Furthermore, a strong primary care network should actively participate in patient education, providing information about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection.

Specialized care, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is another critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The presence and accessibility of these specialists within the ZIP Code are paramount. The concentration of specialists, their experience, and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers are all important considerations. Practices affiliated with nationally recognized cancer centers often have access to the latest treatment protocols, clinical trials, and advanced technologies.

Standout practices in Fayetteville, NC, can be identified through several indicators. Patient reviews and ratings, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. The presence of board-certified specialists, particularly in pulmonology, oncology, and thoracic surgery, is a strong indicator of expertise. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research demonstrate a commitment to innovation and the advancement of lung cancer treatment. Finally, the use of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as low-dose CT scans for screening and minimally invasive surgical techniques, is a positive factor.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in ZIP Code 28306 can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate vicinity. This can reduce travel burdens for patients, improve convenience, and facilitate timely access to care. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the ease of use, and the integration with existing electronic health records are important considerations.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the ZIP Code is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Patients with access to mental health support are better equipped to cope with the challenges of treatment, manage side effects, and maintain a higher quality of life. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals from primary care physicians and oncologists, is essential. The availability of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

Assessing the Lung Cancer Score also requires evaluating the availability of ancillary services. These include access to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and palliative care. The proximity of these services to the patient's home and the efficiency of the referral process are important considerations. Palliative care, which focuses on symptom management and improving quality of life, is particularly important for lung cancer patients.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 28306 will be a composite of all these factors. It is a dynamic measure that can change over time as healthcare providers adapt to new technologies, treatment protocols, and patient needs. The score would ideally be presented on a scale, with a clear explanation of the methodology used to calculate it. This would allow patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

This analysis highlights the complexity of assessing the quality of lung cancer care in a specific geographic area. It emphasizes the importance of considering a wide range of factors, from the availability of primary care to the integration of mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and actionable assessment that can be used to improve patient outcomes and the overall quality of life for individuals battling lung cancer.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data points within Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28306), and to gain a deeper understanding of the Lung Cancer Score, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape.