28342, Falcon, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 54.42 percent of the residents in 28342 has some form of health insurance. 17.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.58 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 28342 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28342. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,616 health care providers accessible to residents in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides a localized assessment of resources relevant to lung cancer care within the specified geographic parameters. This is not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a contextual overview of the available infrastructure and its potential impact on patient access and outcomes. The focus is on physicians, primary care, and related services in and around ZIP Code 28342 (likely encompassing Falcon, North Carolina) with a specific emphasis on factors influencing lung cancer patient care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In a rural area like Falcon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts early detection and management of lung cancer. A low PCP-to-population ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for screenings or to address concerning symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio, even if not ideal, offers a greater chance of proactive care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) or publicly available physician directories would be necessary to ascertain the precise PCP-to-population ratio within ZIP Code 28342 and the surrounding areas.

Primary care availability in Falcon itself is a pivotal factor. The presence of well-equipped primary care practices, including those with integrated diagnostic capabilities, is vital. A practice with on-site X-ray or CT scan facilities, for example, could expedite the initial diagnostic process, potentially leading to earlier detection of lung cancer. The quality of primary care, including the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., for high-risk individuals), is equally important. Evaluating the practices involves assessing their staffing, equipment, and adherence to national screening recommendations.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in patient care. These practices may have implemented innovative approaches to improve outcomes for lung cancer patients. This could include proactive screening programs, patient navigation services to assist with appointments and treatment, or participation in clinical trials. Identifying these standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare landscape, potentially involving interviews with healthcare professionals, review of patient testimonials (where available and ethically permissible), and examination of publicly available quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services for primary care, pulmonology, and oncology can significantly improve access to care for lung cancer patients in Falcon. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving the speed of diagnosis and treatment. The extent of telemedicine adoption in the area, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is an important consideration.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support, is essential for supporting patients' overall well-being. The presence of mental health professionals in the area, their integration with primary care practices, and the accessibility of these services for lung cancer patients are key factors to assess.

The integration of these factors paints a picture of the local environment for lung cancer care. The analysis would consider the proximity of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, to Falcon. Travel time to these specialists is a major factor in patient care. Are there specialists within a reasonable driving distance, or do patients have to travel long distances for appointments and treatments? The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations in the area is another crucial factor. These groups provide emotional support, information, and resources for patients and their families.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of financial assistance programs for lung cancer patients. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can add to the stress of the disease. The availability of resources to help patients cover the costs of treatment, medication, and other expenses is essential. The presence of these programs can significantly improve patient access to care and reduce financial hardship.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP Code 28342 and primary care availability in Falcon requires a multi-faceted assessment. It goes beyond simply counting physicians. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialist care and support services. This analysis highlights the complex interplay of factors that affect patient access to care and ultimately, their outcomes.

To visualize the distribution of these resources and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in and around Falcon, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data points.