28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.99 percent of the residents in 28348 has some form of health insurance. 36.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.44 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 28348 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28348. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,857 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,564 health care providers accessible to residents in 28348, Hope Mills, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hope Mills, NC (ZIP Code 28348)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in Hope Mills, North Carolina (ZIP code 28348), focusing on factors relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and patient support. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care.

Hope Mills, a growing community, faces the same healthcare challenges as many suburban areas. Access to quality primary care is fundamental, particularly for a disease like lung cancer where early detection significantly improves outcomes. The success of early detection strategies hinges on the ability of PCPs to provide preventative screenings, recognize symptoms, and efficiently refer patients to specialists.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

The physician-to-patient ratio in 28348 is a critical factor. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Department of Health & Human Services, should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code. This ratio is a starting point; it does not reflect the quality of care, but it does impact access.

Furthermore, the distribution of physicians within the area matters. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient PCPs accepting new patients, including those with Medicare or Medicaid? These factors impact the ability of residents to establish a relationship with a PCP, a critical step in proactive lung cancer screening.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Focus should be given to practices that are consistently praised for their communication, thoroughness, and responsiveness.

Beyond patient feedback, the presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine or family medicine is an important indicator of quality. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays or the ability to quickly order CT scans, can expedite the diagnostic process. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on cancer screening, are also strong candidates for recognition.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access and Efficiency**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, and its adoption among PCPs in 28348 is a key consideration. Telemedicine offers several benefits in the context of lung cancer care. It can improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. It can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

Practices that offer telehealth services demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The ability to conduct virtual consultations allows PCPs to address initial concerns, review patient history, and determine the need for in-person evaluations, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving efficiency.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

A lung cancer diagnosis is emotionally challenging. Patients experience anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources within the PCP’s practice or through referral networks is essential. Practices that have established relationships with therapists, counselors, and support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Screening for mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, should be a standard practice. Providing patients with access to mental health services helps them cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their diagnosis and treatment.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond the general factors, specific considerations related to lung cancer care are important. PCPs should be knowledgeable about the latest lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). They should be proactive in recommending low-dose CT scans for eligible patients.

Furthermore, PCPs should be familiar with the symptoms of lung cancer and be prepared to order appropriate diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays or CT scans, when warranted. Effective communication and coordination with pulmonologists and oncologists are essential for ensuring timely and appropriate care.

**Overall Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for PCPs in 28348 would be based on a composite of these factors. Practices demonstrating strong performance in physician-to-patient ratios, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would receive higher scores. Those practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs and have robust referral networks would also be highly regarded.

**Conclusion**

Access to high-quality primary care is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. The availability of PCPs, the quality of care they provide, their adoption of technology, and the support they offer to patients are all critical factors in improving outcomes.

To visualize and analyze the distribution of these resources, and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hope Mills and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping technology.

**Call to Action:**

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