28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.85 percent of the residents in 28366 has some form of health insurance. 42.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.51 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 28366 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,452 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28366. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 973 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 905 health care providers accessible to residents in 28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Newton Grove, NC (ZIP Code 28366)

Newton Grove, North Carolina, a small town nestled in Sampson County, presents a unique landscape for assessing lung cancer risk factors and healthcare accessibility. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and related resources within ZIP code 28366, aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective. This score, while not a numerical value, will reflect the overall environment surrounding lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment access.

The foundation of this analysis rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are the crucial first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in preventative care, including screening for lung cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio in Newton Grove is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data on physician density within 28366, including the number of actively practicing PCPs, is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates for the ZIP code, allows for a preliminary assessment of this ratio. Further research into the specific practice locations and their patient load is necessary for a more precise understanding.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the practices they operate within are essential. Are the practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners, recommended for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals? Do the practices adhere to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, which recommend screening for individuals aged 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history? The presence of these tools and the practice's adherence to these guidelines directly influence the "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that proactively offer and promote screening services will receive higher consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Newton Grove. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and other specialists can reduce travel burdens and improve timely access to expert opinions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be viewed favorably. The ease of access to these technologies and the patient's ability to navigate them are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to lung cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress are common. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support, is a vital component of comprehensive care. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams or have established referral pathways to mental health providers in the community will receive positive consideration in this analysis. The integration of mental health services can significantly impact the patient's journey.

Identifying standout practices within 28366 requires in-depth investigation. This involves researching individual practices, examining their websites, and potentially conducting patient surveys. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and patient-centered care will be recognized. These practices might have dedicated patient navigators to assist patients through the screening and treatment processes, or they may have established partnerships with local hospitals and cancer centers to ensure seamless care coordination. Their commitment to patient education and support groups also contributes to a better "Lung Cancer Score."

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Newton Grove, NC (28366) is not just a measure of the availability of healthcare services; it is also a reflection of the community's awareness of lung cancer risks and the proactive measures taken to address them. Factors like smoking cessation programs and community outreach initiatives play a role. The presence of smoking cessation programs, supported by the local healthcare providers, can help reduce the incidence of lung cancer. Community education programs that raise awareness about lung cancer risks and the importance of early detection are also critical.

Data accuracy is essential. This analysis relies on the most current and reliable data available. Publicly accessible resources, combined with direct inquiries to local healthcare providers, are necessary to ensure the accuracy of the assessment. The information on physician availability, practice capabilities, and resource accessibility will be continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This constant evaluation is crucial to maintaining the relevance of the "Lung Cancer Score."

In conclusion, the healthcare environment in Newton Grove, NC (28366) presents both challenges and opportunities in the context of lung cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis emphasizes the importance of primary care access, screening capabilities, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The availability of these resources, and the practices' commitment to patient-centered care, will determine the overall quality of care provided to the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Newton Grove and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice information, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data visualization.

**Click here to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in your community.**