28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.15 percent of the residents in 28357 has some form of health insurance. 51.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.75 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 28357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 525 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28357. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 388 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,765 health care providers accessible to residents in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina.

Lung cancer, a devastating disease, demands a multifaceted approach to care. This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer support within ZIP Code 28357, encompassing Lumber Bridge, North Carolina, focusing on primary care access, physician resources, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management begins with early detection and diagnosis. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening, referrals, and ongoing support. Assessing primary care availability in Lumber Bridge is therefore paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally translates to improved access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The distribution of these physicians within the community matters. Are they clustered in a single practice, or are they dispersed, offering broader coverage?

Standout practices within the area would be those that prioritize preventative care, including robust screening programs for individuals at high risk of lung cancer. This includes promoting smoking cessation programs and offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients. Practices that actively participate in community outreach, educating residents about lung cancer risk factors and the importance of early detection, demonstrate a commitment to proactive healthcare. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs streamline communication between physicians, specialists, and patients, facilitating efficient information sharing and coordinated care.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Its adoption within ZIP Code 28357 can significantly impact lung cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing emotional support. The availability of telehealth services, including video conferencing and remote monitoring, can improve access to care and patient convenience.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical factor. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their care plans demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The presence of oncology social workers, who can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and connect patients with community resources, is a significant advantage.

Specific practices within 28357 will be assessed based on these criteria. This will involve researching the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, their patient load, and their affiliations with hospitals or specialist networks. The availability of LDCT screening, smoking cessation programs, and telemedicine services will be examined. The presence of mental health resources within the practices and the broader community will be evaluated.

The assessment will also consider the accessibility of these resources. Are services readily available to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status or insurance coverage? Are there transportation barriers that might limit access to care? Addressing these disparities is crucial to ensuring equitable access to lung cancer support.

The analysis will not only evaluate the existing resources but also identify areas for improvement. This might include advocating for increased access to LDCT screening, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, or expanding mental health support services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of lung cancer care in Lumber Bridge and to identify opportunities to enhance patient outcomes.

The quality of lung cancer care extends beyond the immediate medical treatment. It encompasses a range of supportive services, including patient education, financial assistance, and social support. Practices that offer comprehensive patient education materials, covering topics such as treatment options, side effect management, and lifestyle modifications, demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients. The availability of financial counseling, which can help patients navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and treatment costs, is another important consideration.

The integration of community resources is also crucial. This includes partnerships with local cancer support organizations, which can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and access to educational programs. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to providing holistic care.

The analysis will also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of communication with physicians, and the overall satisfaction with the care received. Patient feedback is a valuable source of information and can help identify areas for improvement.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability and quality of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. This score will provide a valuable tool for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the lung cancer care landscape in Lumber Bridge. It will serve as a benchmark for future improvements and a guide for patients seeking care.

The assessment process involves gathering data from various sources, including physician directories, hospital websites, and community health organizations. The information will be analyzed to identify trends, patterns, and areas of concern. The final Lung Cancer Score will be presented in a clear and concise format, along with recommendations for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lumber Bridge and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas of need.