28367, Norman, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28367, Norman, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.74 percent of the residents in 28367 has some form of health insurance. 52.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.26 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 28367 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 74 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28367. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,631 health care providers accessible to residents in 28367, Norman, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for Doctors in ZIP Code 28367 and Primary Care in Norman

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 28367, focusing on the quality of care provided by physicians and the availability of essential resources. This is not a definitive ranking but rather a comprehensive assessment, considering various factors crucial for patient outcomes. We will also touch upon primary care availability in Norman, Oklahoma, as a point of comparison.

The core of this assessment lies in understanding the potential for early detection and effective treatment of lung cancer. The success of lung cancer treatment hinges on several key elements, including timely diagnosis, access to specialized care, and the availability of comprehensive support services. The analysis considers these aspects in relation to the medical professionals and resources accessible within the specified geographical area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. Within ZIP code 28367, a high physician-to-patient ratio could suggest potential challenges in securing appointments and receiving timely care. Conversely, a low ratio could indicate a more favorable environment for patients seeking medical attention. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into these ratios. Analyzing these numbers helps in understanding the workload of primary care physicians and specialists, which directly impacts the quality of care.

Standout practices, if any, within 28367 are identified by their demonstrated commitment to patient care, particularly in the context of lung cancer screening and treatment. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, adhering to established guidelines. These practices often employ advanced diagnostic technologies and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Reviews and testimonials from patients, while not always fully representative, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility challenges. The availability of telemedicine platforms within practices in 28367 can be assessed by examining their websites, social media presence, and patient communication materials. This also includes the ease of scheduling and the technical support provided for virtual appointments.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked, but they play a crucial role in cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging for patients and their families. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is vital for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of these resources within the practices in 28367, or through referral networks, is a key component of comprehensive care. This also includes the presence of support groups or programs that offer emotional support and guidance.

Primary care availability in Norman, Oklahoma, provides a comparative perspective. Norman, a larger city, likely has a different physician-to-patient ratio and a potentially wider range of healthcare services. The availability of specialists, diagnostic facilities, and mental health resources in Norman can be compared to those in 28367 to highlight the disparities and opportunities for improvement in the latter. The comparison helps in understanding the advantages and disadvantages of receiving care in a more urban environment versus a more rural one.

Specific practices within 28367 that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening and treatment should be highlighted. This includes practices that have implemented protocols for identifying and referring patients who meet the criteria for lung cancer screening, such as those with a history of smoking. The presence of dedicated lung cancer specialists or a multidisciplinary team approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, and surgeons, is also a significant indicator of quality care.

The presence of patient navigators or care coordinators is also a positive factor. These individuals help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process. They can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and accessing financial assistance programs.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly between different healthcare providers are also vital. EHRs improve care coordination and allow for better communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. This can lead to more informed decisions and improved patient outcomes.

The availability of educational resources for patients is another important factor. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services are more likely to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This can include brochures, websites, and educational programs.

The level of insurance acceptance is also a critical factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are more accessible to patients with varying financial backgrounds. This ensures that more people have access to the care they need.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in 28367 should also consider the challenges and opportunities for improvement. This could include the need for increased awareness of lung cancer screening, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the development of stronger referral networks. The assessment should also identify any existing gaps in care and suggest potential solutions.

The comparison with primary care availability in Norman should also highlight the disparities and opportunities for improvement in 28367. This could include the need for increased access to specialists, diagnostic facilities, and mental health resources. The comparison should also identify any best practices that can be adopted in 28367.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care in 28367 is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The comparison with primary care availability in Norman provides a valuable benchmark for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 28367.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources and physician locations in 28367 and beyond, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps, allowing you to visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other healthcare resources, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape.