28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.94 percent of the residents in 28365 has some form of health insurance. 40.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.11 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 28365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Olive, NC (ZIP Code 28365)**

This analysis aims to evaluate the healthcare landscape in Mount Olive, North Carolina (ZIP code 28365), focusing on its preparedness for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care, considering factors crucial for early detection and patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive overview will provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community's healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is critical, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 28365 is a key indicator of access. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the exact ratio for this specific area is essential. Public health data, county health department reports, and resources like the North Carolina Medical Board can provide this critical data point.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters significantly. Are there practices within Mount Olive that stand out for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings? This necessitates investigating the practices' screening protocols, their use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) for tracking patient histories and risk factors, and their proactive outreach to patients who may be eligible for screenings. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can offer insights into the patient experience, including the ease of access, the thoroughness of examinations, and the overall level of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital aspect of healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely and receive follow-up care without the need for extensive travel. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Mount Olive is crucial. Are practices offering virtual consultations? Are they equipped to monitor patients remotely? Do they have the technology and infrastructure to support video conferencing and secure data transmission? The availability of telemedicine can significantly impact the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. Does the local healthcare system provide access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors? Are there support groups available for patients and their families? Does the community offer resources for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with cancer treatment? Integrating mental health services into primary care practices and cancer treatment centers can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mount Olive will be influenced by the integration of these factors. A high score would reflect a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices that prioritize preventative care and early detection, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially hindering access to timely diagnosis and comprehensive care.

Evaluating individual practices within the area requires delving deeper. Identify the practices with the highest patient ratings, the most comprehensive screening protocols, and the most advanced telemedicine capabilities. Investigate their partnerships with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, to ensure seamless referrals and coordinated care. Determine if these practices actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risks and screening guidelines.

Moreover, the presence of community health initiatives can significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." Are there programs aimed at smoking cessation? Are there campaigns to educate the public about the importance of early detection and the symptoms of lung cancer? A community that actively promotes preventative health measures and provides resources for those at risk will likely have better outcomes.

The role of hospitals and specialty care centers within a reasonable distance of Mount Olive also influences the overall healthcare landscape. Are there hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, necessary for lung cancer detection? Are there oncologists and pulmonologists available to provide specialized care? The proximity and quality of these resources are crucial for patients requiring more advanced treatment.

Finally, the financial aspects of healthcare access must be considered. What is the prevalence of health insurance coverage in Mount Olive? Are there resources available to assist patients with the cost of screenings, treatment, and medications? Addressing financial barriers to care is essential to ensure that all residents have access to the necessary healthcare services.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for Mount Olive requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community initiatives. This comprehensive analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. Understanding these factors is essential for improving access to care, promoting early detection, and ultimately, improving patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mount Olive and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.