28360, Lumberton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.53 percent of the residents in 28360 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.58 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 28360 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,091 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28360. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,666 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,367 health care providers accessible to residents in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lumberton, NC (ZIP Code 28360)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 28360 (Lumberton, NC), focusing on factors relevant to patient care, particularly those impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall well-being for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to cancer care.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Early detection of lung cancer often hinges on regular check-ups and screenings, which are typically initiated by a PCP. In Lumberton, the primary care landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio fluctuates, it is generally understood that the area faces a shortage of PCPs compared to the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. The impact of this shortage is particularly felt by vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those residing in rural areas. Addressing this disparity requires strategies to attract and retain PCPs, such as offering competitive compensation packages, improving infrastructure, and promoting the area as a desirable place to live and work.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system. The impact of a low ratio is multi-faceted. It can affect the ability of patients to establish a consistent relationship with a primary care physician, which is vital for early detection and ongoing management of chronic conditions, including lung cancer. Furthermore, a high patient load can limit the time physicians have to spend with each patient, potentially hindering thorough examinations, detailed discussions about risk factors, and comprehensive care planning. The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Identifying standout practices within the 28360 ZIP code requires a nuanced evaluation. These practices should be recognized for their commitment to providing patient-centered care, utilizing evidence-based practices, and demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening and management. Factors to consider include the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners, which are crucial for early detection. The implementation of patient navigation programs, which assist patients through the complex healthcare system, is another important indicator of quality. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors and promoting screening, also deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited by geographical barriers. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. The assessment should consider the extent to which practices in Lumberton are utilizing telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and the patient experience with these technologies. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists, improving overall care coordination.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. The analysis should assess the extent to which practices in Lumberton are integrated with mental health providers, the availability of on-site counseling services, and the referral pathways for patients who need mental health support. The integration of mental health services can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The assessment of mental health resources should also consider the availability of resources for caregivers. Caring for a loved one with lung cancer can be emotionally and physically draining. Support groups, educational materials, and respite care services can provide much-needed assistance to caregivers, enabling them to provide better support to their loved ones. The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for palliative care, which focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. Palliative care can improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for physicians in ZIP code 28360 is a complex assessment that requires a multi-faceted approach. It considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Improving the Lung Cancer Score requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers.

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