28363, Marston, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.34 percent of the residents in 28363 has some form of health insurance. 44.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.96 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 28363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28363. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,444 health care providers accessible to residents in 28363, Marston, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marston, NC - Focus on Primary Care & Physician Availability

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services within Marston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28363), with a specific lens on factors relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, identify potentially standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources – all crucial components in supporting patients facing this challenging disease.

Marston, a rural community, faces unique healthcare challenges. Access to specialized medical care, including oncology, is often limited, making the role of primary care physicians (PCPs) even more critical. Early detection of lung cancer significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the ability of local PCPs to provide preventative screenings, recognize early symptoms, and facilitate timely referrals is paramount. The quality and accessibility of primary care directly impact the likelihood of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Marston, we need to assess the number of PCPs actively serving the population. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant sources should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is particularly concerning for lung cancer, where time is of the essence. The analysis will investigate the specific number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and how this number compares to the national or state averages.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is also important. Are the physicians evenly distributed, or are there underserved areas? Are there any "medical deserts" within the ZIP code where access to primary care is severely limited? Furthermore, the age and experience levels of the practicing physicians are factors. A mix of experienced physicians and those newer to the field can provide a balance of established knowledge and potentially updated treatment approaches. The analysis will consider the demographic makeup of the physician pool and its implications.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves examining factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices (like adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines for high-risk individuals), and the availability of on-site diagnostic services (such as X-ray or basic lab work). Practices that proactively offer preventative screenings, have robust referral networks to specialists, and employ a patient-centered approach are likely to be highly rated. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and patient reviews can be invaluable in this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to mental health support. The analysis will investigate the extent to which PCPs in Marston offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the technologies employed.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are essential for patients with lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and fear. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is critical. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers) in the area and the degree to which PCPs collaborate with mental health providers.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a crucial aspect of preventative care. PCPs who offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, are demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive patient care. The analysis will examine the prevalence of these programs within the primary care practices in Marston.

Furthermore, the analysis will explore the referral pathways for lung cancer patients. Do PCPs have established relationships with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists? Are referrals timely and efficient? The analysis will investigate the referral networks of the PCPs and assess the ease with which patients can access specialized care.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for primary care in Marston will be a composite score, taking into account all the factors discussed above. This score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of primary care services in the area, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The score will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Marston and highlight areas for improvement.

In conclusion, understanding the primary care landscape in Marston is vital for supporting lung cancer patients. The analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better healthcare access for the community.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Marston, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and demographic information, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you visualize the information presented in this analysis.