28327, Carthage, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.58 percent of the residents in 28327 has some form of health insurance. 30.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.02 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 28327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,924 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28327. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,806 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Carthage, NC (ZIP Code 28327)

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care available in Carthage, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28327), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and patient well-being. The analysis considers the overall healthcare ecosystem, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, and the integration of technology. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to assist residents in navigating their healthcare options.

**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals is critical. In Carthage, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from reliable sources, such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, are essential for determining this ratio accurately. Public health reports and local healthcare organizations may also offer insights into the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code.

Furthermore, the availability of PCPs alone is not sufficient. The types of services offered by these physicians, including their familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines and their willingness to participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to lung cancer, are equally important. Practices that actively promote preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, should be highly regarded.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of their patient care, their integration of technology, and their commitment to community outreach. Practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores, as measured by patient surveys, are often a good indicator of quality. The presence of board-certified physicians in relevant specialties, such as internal medicine and family medicine, is also a significant factor.

Moreover, practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer demonstrate a commitment to advancing the field and offering patients access to the latest treatment options. These practices often have a more comprehensive understanding of the disease and its management. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray and potentially CT scans, can significantly improve the speed and convenience of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Carthage. Its adoption can significantly improve lung cancer care by providing access to specialists, facilitating remote monitoring, and offering convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, allowing for virtual consultations and remote monitoring of patients, are likely to provide more comprehensive care.

The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening and follow-up care can reduce travel burdens for patients, especially those in remote areas. Telemedicine can also improve communication between PCPs and specialists, leading to more coordinated care. The integration of telemedicine into a practice's workflow, including the training of staff and the provision of technical support for patients, is crucial for its successful implementation.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources within the healthcare system is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients.

The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can improve patient outcomes. This includes screening for mental health issues, providing access to counseling and therapy, and coordinating care between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are likely to provide a more holistic and supportive care experience.

**Specific Considerations for Carthage, NC**

The specific healthcare landscape of Carthage, NC, requires a nuanced understanding. Factors such as the demographics of the population, the prevalence of smoking, and the availability of transportation all influence the accessibility and effectiveness of lung cancer care. Addressing these local factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

It is also important to consider the collaboration between local healthcare providers and regional hospitals or cancer centers. Strong partnerships can improve access to specialized care, advanced diagnostic tools, and clinical trials. The presence of support groups and community resources for lung cancer patients and their families is also a positive indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed above, a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for Carthage, NC, would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis would also take into account the specific needs of the community and the presence of any local initiatives aimed at improving lung cancer care.

The final score would provide a valuable tool for residents seeking information about their healthcare options. It would also serve as a benchmark for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. Regular updates to the score, based on ongoing data collection and analysis, would ensure its continued relevance and accuracy.

**Call to Action: Explore with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Carthage, NC, and visualize the location of healthcare providers, access the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps allow you to explore the distribution of PCPs, hospitals, and other healthcare resources within the ZIP code. Using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a visual understanding of healthcare accessibility and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.