28350, Lakeview, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28350, Lakeview, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.27 percent of the residents in 28350 has some form of health insurance. 46.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.94 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 28350 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28350. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 138 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,388 health care providers accessible to residents in 28350, Lakeview, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28350 and Primary Care in Lakeview

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 28350, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. We will also consider the implications of this primary care landscape for the broader community of Lakeview, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment. The assessment incorporates elements critical to lung cancer outcomes, including physician accessibility, the integration of preventative measures, and the availability of crucial support services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Within 28350, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicative of a shortage of primary care physicians, can impede timely access to screenings, diagnostic evaluations, and ongoing management. Analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the zip code, alongside the estimated population, provides a quantifiable measure of access. This data, readily available through resources like the American Medical Association (AMA) and state medical boards, allows for a comparison against national and regional averages. A concerningly low ratio necessitates investigation into the causes, such as physician shortages, high patient volume, or limited office hours.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped with the necessary technology to facilitate efficient patient care? The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) is particularly important. EHRs allow for seamless information sharing, including patient history, medication lists, and screening results, which is vital for coordinated lung cancer care. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs, and utilize them effectively, often demonstrate a higher level of care coordination.

A key component of lung cancer prevention is screening, specifically through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The primary care environment in 28350 must be evaluated for its capacity to facilitate these screenings. Do the practices have the necessary equipment on-site, or do they have established referral pathways to nearby imaging centers? Are the physicians knowledgeable about the current guidelines for LDCT screening, including patient eligibility criteria based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors? The proactive implementation of screening protocols, alongside clear communication with patients, is a strong indicator of a practice’s commitment to lung cancer prevention.

Telemedicine adoption is another important aspect of primary care. The ability to offer virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and health education, which are all critical elements in lung cancer care. An assessment of telemedicine capabilities within the primary care practices of 28350 should include an evaluation of the platforms used, the services offered, and the patient satisfaction with these virtual interactions.

The availability of mental health resources is another vital consideration. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional and psychological well-being. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or established referral networks, are better equipped to support patients through this challenging journey. The analysis should assess the presence of mental health professionals within the practices, the availability of counseling services, and the ease with which patients can access these resources.

The primary care landscape in 28350 also has implications for the broader community of Lakeview. The availability of primary care impacts the overall health of the population, including the prevalence of chronic diseases and the early detection of serious illnesses like lung cancer. A robust primary care system can contribute to a healthier community by promoting preventative care, managing chronic conditions effectively, and providing timely access to specialized services. Conversely, a deficient primary care system can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs.

Identifying standout practices within 28350 is crucial. This involves recognizing those that excel in patient care, demonstrate a commitment to preventative measures, and effectively integrate support services. These practices often exhibit several key characteristics: a high physician-to-patient ratio, efficient EHR utilization, proactive screening protocols, accessible telemedicine options, and readily available mental health resources. They also often receive positive patient reviews and demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education and communication.

The assessment of the primary care environment in 28350 must be an ongoing process. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and guidelines emerging regularly. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and screening compliance, is essential to ensure that the community has access to the best possible lung cancer care. The analysis should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and to identify areas for improvement.

The availability of comprehensive data is critical for a thorough assessment of the primary care landscape. This includes information on physician demographics, practice characteristics, screening rates, and patient outcomes. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and state health departments, can provide valuable insights. Data from patient surveys and feedback mechanisms can also provide a valuable perspective on the patient experience.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and actionable understanding of the primary care environment in 28350, with a focus on lung cancer care. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, this assessment can inform strategies to enhance access to care, promote preventative measures, and improve patient outcomes. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to work together to create a healthier community.

For a detailed, interactive visualization of the primary care landscape in 28350, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and screening availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.