28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.00 percent of the residents in 28312 has some form of health insurance. 43.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.15 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 28312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,749 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28312. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,587 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,620 health care providers accessible to residents in 28312, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28312)

This analysis examines the landscape of primary care and associated resources within Fayetteville, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28312. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the availability and quality of care, particularly concerning lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, ultimately informing a "Lung Cancer Score" for this area. This score, while not a definitive number, reflects the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy rests on robust primary care. Within 28312, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial starting point. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, presents a significant challenge. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. The adoption of evidence-based practices, such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, is paramount. These guidelines recommend annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria, including age and smoking history. Practices that actively integrate these recommendations into their patient care protocols are likely to contribute to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

Standout practices within 28312 warrant specific attention. These could be identified through patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available performance data. Factors to consider include the practice's commitment to preventive care, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, and the availability of specialized services like smoking cessation programs. Practices with a demonstrated history of successful lung cancer screenings and referrals to specialized oncological care would naturally score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely interventions and improved management of side effects. Practices actively embracing telemedicine technologies contribute positively to the score.

The mental health aspect of lung cancer cannot be overlooked. A cancer diagnosis, and the treatment that follows, can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for patients navigating this difficult journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or readily available referrals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being and will contribute to a higher score.

The presence of smoking cessation programs is another important factor. Primary care practices should actively offer or readily refer patients to effective smoking cessation programs. These programs, often incorporating counseling, medication, and behavioral therapies, are crucial in preventing lung cancer and improving the chances of successful treatment for those already diagnosed. Practices that prioritize smoking cessation efforts contribute significantly to the overall health of the community.

The proximity and accessibility of specialized cancer care facilities are also crucial. The availability of oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists within a reasonable distance from 28312 is a key factor. This includes the presence of hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as LDCT scanners, radiation therapy units, and surgical facilities. The ability to quickly access these resources is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The Lung Cancer Score for 28312 is therefore a complex assessment. It requires evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the availability of smoking cessation programs, and the proximity to specialized cancer care. A low score would indicate challenges in accessing care, while a high score would reflect a more robust and patient-centered healthcare environment.

The data gathering and analysis process is ongoing. Publicly available information should be carefully reviewed. The score will be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a useful tool for both patients and healthcare providers.

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the demographics of the population within ZIP code 28312, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Utilize the advanced mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fayetteville, NC.