28326, Cameron, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.09 percent of the residents in 28326 has some form of health insurance. 23.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.70 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 28326 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28326. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,835 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,852 health care providers accessible to residents in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cameron, NC (ZIP Code 28326)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within the Cameron, North Carolina (ZIP code 28326) area. The focus is on primary care physician availability, overall healthcare infrastructure, and the potential impact on patient outcomes, particularly concerning lung cancer. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and to offer insights for patients and healthcare providers.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and consistent follow-up, which heavily relies on the accessibility and quality of primary care. In Cameron, a critical aspect of this evaluation is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the general availability of primary care physicians is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, all of which negatively impact lung cancer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the ability to coordinate care with specialists. Practices that actively participate in preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for at-risk individuals, demonstrate a commitment to early detection, a critical factor in lung cancer survival rates. This also includes the ability to promptly refer patients to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists when necessary.

Identifying standout practices within Cameron requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice characteristics. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, the use of electronic health records for seamless information sharing, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that prioritize patient education and communication, offering clear explanations of diagnoses, treatment options, and potential side effects, tend to foster better patient adherence to treatment plans and improved overall well-being.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of this assessment. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas like Cameron, where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telehealth consultations can provide convenient access to primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals, reducing the need for lengthy travel and potentially improving patient outcomes. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the Cameron area is vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, providing access to counseling and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ability to seamlessly refer patients to mental health specialists can significantly improve their quality of life and treatment adherence.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is also a key factor. These resources provide patients with a sense of community, emotional support, and access to valuable information about lung cancer treatment and management. The presence of active support groups within the Cameron area can significantly improve patient outcomes by providing a network of support and shared experiences.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Cameron plays a significant role. This includes the presence of local hospitals, specialized cancer centers, and access to advanced treatment options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The proximity of these resources to the patient's home can significantly impact their ability to receive timely and effective care. The ability to quickly access these resources can be crucial for patients undergoing treatment.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact access to care. This includes the percentage of the population with health insurance, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the overall health literacy of the community. Understanding these factors can help to identify potential disparities in access to care and inform the development of targeted interventions.

Evaluating the availability of transportation services is also important. Limited access to reliable transportation can create significant barriers to care, especially for patients who require frequent appointments for treatment or follow-up. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, or patient transportation programs can significantly improve access to care for vulnerable populations.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the communication style of the physicians, and the overall satisfaction of the patients with their care. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and actively seek feedback from their patients are more likely to provide high-quality care and achieve better outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Cameron, NC (ZIP code 28326) is a complex undertaking that requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. By carefully considering these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identify opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cameron, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a detailed geographic overview of healthcare resources, empowering you with the information needed to make informed decisions about your health.