28364, Maxton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 28364 has some form of health insurance. 48.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.46 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 28364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,605 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28364. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,090 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 28364, Maxton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Maxton, NC (ZIP Code 28364)

The health landscape of Maxton, North Carolina, presents a complex picture when assessing its preparedness for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis, focusing on primary care availability and the capabilities of local physicians, aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure within ZIP code 28364. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors crucial in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis.

A critical starting point is the physician-to-patient ratio. Maxton, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings or follow-up care. The ratio, therefore, is a key indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, translates to increased wait times, potentially hindering early detection, a critical factor in lung cancer survival rates. Public health data, including information from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, is essential for accurate assessment.

Standout practices within the area, if any, require detailed investigation. This involves identifying clinics or medical groups that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening and management. Are these practices equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, which are crucial for early detection? Do they have established protocols for referring patients to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons? Examining the qualifications and specializations of the physicians within these practices is also critical. Board certifications in relevant fields, along with experience in treating lung cancer patients, are indicators of a practice's ability to provide high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining the technological infrastructure of local practices, including their ability to conduct virtual consultations, share medical records electronically, and provide remote monitoring. Furthermore, it's important to evaluate patient access to the necessary technology, such as reliable internet connectivity and devices.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound psychological impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore critical. This analysis must investigate the presence of mental health providers in the Maxton area, their experience in treating patients with cancer, and their ability to collaborate with primary care physicians and oncologists. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a key element of comprehensive patient support.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Maxton, NC, is not a simple numerical value. It is a holistic assessment based on the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas of weakness, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of mental health support. The actual score would be determined by a weighted analysis of the factors, with greater weight given to those factors directly impacting patient outcomes, such as early detection and access to specialists.

The success of lung cancer care in Maxton depends on collaboration. Primary care physicians must work closely with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. The establishment of a multidisciplinary approach, involving regular communication and shared decision-making, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. This collaboration can be facilitated by telemedicine, enabling specialists to consult with primary care physicians remotely and provide guidance on patient management.

Furthermore, community outreach and education are vital. Raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking, and promoting early screening can significantly improve patient outcomes. Local healthcare providers can play a key role in this effort, organizing educational events, distributing informational materials, and partnering with community organizations to reach at-risk populations.

The availability of financial assistance programs is another critical consideration. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients face financial hardship. Identifying resources that can help patients cover the costs of treatment, such as medications, diagnostic tests, and supportive care services, is essential. This includes information on insurance coverage, patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies, and local charities that provide financial support to cancer patients.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Maxton, NC, is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges inherent in a rural healthcare environment. While the area may have dedicated healthcare professionals, the scarcity of resources, particularly specialists, and the potential for limited access to advanced technologies and mental health services, could hinder optimal patient outcomes. Addressing these shortcomings requires a multifaceted approach, including efforts to recruit and retain physicians, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase access to mental health support.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Maxton and other communities, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers powerful tools for data visualization and analysis, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, and to better understand the complexities of healthcare delivery in your community.