28318, Autryville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.19 percent of the residents in 28318 has some form of health insurance. 37.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.21 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 28318 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 673 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28318. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 653 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Autryville, NC (ZIP Code 28318)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within the Autryville, NC ZIP code 28318 necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized oncology services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt diagnosis, and effective management of co-morbidities are all crucial. Examining primary care availability within Autryville and its surrounding areas reveals a potential challenge. Autryville itself is a small community, and the immediate availability of primary care physicians might be limited. Residents likely rely on practices located in nearby towns like Clinton or Fayetteville. This necessitates an understanding of travel times and accessibility, especially for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the potential impact of these geographic constraints.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on physician-to-patient ratios within the 28318 ZIP code and the broader Cumberland County area is essential. This data should be compared to state and national averages to determine whether the area faces a shortage of primary care physicians. The "Lung Cancer Score" will be directly influenced by the availability of physicians and their capacity to provide timely care.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized oncology services is paramount. While Autryville may not host a dedicated cancer center, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation therapists, and surgical oncologists in nearby cities is crucial. Assessing the proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the presence of comprehensive cancer care programs (including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options) is a key component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The score will reflect the degree to which residents can access specialized care without undue burden.

Telemedicine adoption presents a potential solution to geographic barriers and physician shortages. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and deliver educational resources via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialist providers in the region is critical. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of telehealth services and their potential to enhance patient care and improve outcomes.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it is an essential component of holistic treatment. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or are familiar with the unique challenges faced by cancer patients is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

Examining standout practices within the region is also important. Identifying primary care practices or specialist providers that demonstrate exemplary care, offer innovative services, or have a strong track record of patient outcomes can provide valuable insights. This could include practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, or have established robust support systems for patients and their families. The "Lung Cancer Score" will recognize and reward practices that excel in providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that can help patients navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment. Patient navigators, for example, can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and providing emotional support. Support groups can provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the presence and accessibility of these essential support services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Autryville, NC (28318) will be a composite metric, reflecting the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the proximity of specialist services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services. This score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. It will highlight areas where improvements are needed to ensure that residents have access to high-quality, comprehensive lung cancer care.

Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Autryville, NC, requires a detailed geographic analysis. To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, analyze physician density, and identify potential gaps in care, consider using the power of spatial data analysis. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.