28369, Orrum, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28369, Orrum, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.95 percent of the residents in 28369 has some form of health insurance. 49.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.87 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 28369 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 556 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28369. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 346 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,220 health care providers accessible to residents in 28369, Orrum, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28369 & Primary Care in Orrum

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28369, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific examination of Orrum’s access to care. The goal is to assess the preparedness of the local healthcare ecosystem to address the challenges posed by lung cancer, considering factors like physician density, technological integration, and the provision of mental health support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals exhibiting symptoms. In ZIP code 28369, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. This area needs to be rigorously evaluated. The analysis must investigate the number of practicing PCPs, considering family medicine, internal medicine, and potentially, geriatric specialists. Furthermore, the patient population within the zip code needs to be accurately assessed.

Orrum, a smaller community within the broader area, warrants special attention. Primary care availability in Orrum is crucial. Residents of Orrum may face unique challenges related to transportation, socioeconomic factors, and geographic isolation, all of which can hinder access to care. This analysis will assess the presence of PCPs directly within Orrum or in close proximity. It will also investigate the availability of transportation assistance programs, which can help patients reach medical appointments.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This analysis will investigate the adoption of evidence-based practices in the local practices. Are PCPs adhering to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers)? Do they actively counsel patients on smoking cessation? Data on these practices will be gathered through publicly available sources and potentially through direct inquiries.

Standout practices within ZIP code 28369 will be identified. These practices will be those demonstrating excellence in areas such as patient communication, care coordination, and the integration of technology. The analysis will look for practices that have implemented patient portals, electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing, and robust follow-up systems. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to patient education and support services will be highlighted.

The role of telemedicine in enhancing lung cancer care access and quality cannot be overstated. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for overcoming geographic barriers and providing convenient access to specialists and other healthcare professionals. The analysis will evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs and specialists within the area. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support groups.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by significant emotional distress. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within ZIP code 28369, focusing on access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. It will also explore the integration of mental health services into primary care settings. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will be viewed favorably.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups and patient navigation services. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and advocating for their needs. The presence of these resources will be considered a positive indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

The analysis will also consider the presence of specialized lung cancer care centers. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The proximity and accessibility of these centers will be assessed, considering factors such as travel time, insurance acceptance, and patient satisfaction.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses. It addresses symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, and provides emotional and spiritual support. The presence of palliative care services, either within local hospitals or through home health agencies, will be considered a positive indicator.

The analysis will also assess the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs are crucial for preventing the disease and improving patient outcomes. The analysis will investigate the availability of smoking cessation counseling, medications, and support groups within the area.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within ZIP code 28369. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. The score will provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

This comprehensive analysis will provide a detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28369 and Orrum. It will identify areas of strength and weakness, and provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike. This analysis is intended to be a starting point for improving lung cancer care within the community.

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