28372, Pembroke, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28372, Pembroke, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.29 percent of the residents in 28372 has some form of health insurance. 36.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.06 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 28372 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,536 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28372. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,380 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,069 health care providers accessible to residents in 28372, Pembroke, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pembroke, NC (ZIP Code 28372)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within Pembroke, North Carolina (ZIP code 28372), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, considering primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This information is intended to inform and empower residents seeking healthcare in this area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. In Pembroke, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the likelihood of timely screenings and referrals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical step in evaluating access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for determining this ratio accurately.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This involves evaluating the practices of doctors in the area. Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including proactively recommending lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (e.g., smokers, those with a family history). These practices may also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline care coordination and share information with specialists seamlessly. Furthermore, the practice's approach to patient education, providing clear and accessible information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and screening options, is a key indicator of quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Pembroke. Its adoption can dramatically improve access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and manage medication can significantly reduce the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a crucial component of this analysis.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore an indispensable part of comprehensive care. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness, is vital for supporting patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Assessing the availability of these resources in Pembroke, including the presence of support groups, mental health clinics, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, is a critical aspect of this evaluation.

Specific data points are needed to accurately assess the situation. The analysis would require identifying the number of practicing PCPs within the 28372 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. Then, examining the practices of these physicians is crucial. This involves looking at their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their screening protocols, EHR usage, and patient education materials.

Telemedicine adoption needs to be assessed by researching the practices that offer telehealth services. Are they offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists? This would be done through online research and potentially through contacting the practices. The analysis also involves identifying local mental health resources. This includes identifying mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups that cater to patients with cancer. Information from local hospitals, community health centers, and online directories would be essential.

The presence of dedicated lung cancer specialists is also a key factor. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists is critical for specialized diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should identify the availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance of Pembroke and evaluate their qualifications, experience, and the services they offer. This would involve researching local hospitals and medical centers, as well as consulting online physician directories.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of support services such as smoking cessation programs, which can play a crucial role in preventing lung cancer and improving outcomes for those diagnosed. These programs can help patients quit smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer and improving their overall health.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke, NC (28372) would be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized cancer care. The score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. This will provide a valuable tool for residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

This analysis would also include an assessment of the local hospital systems. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated oncology department, access to advanced imaging technologies (e.g., CT scans, PET scans), and participation in clinical trials are all indicators of a robust cancer care infrastructure.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Pembroke, NC (28372) is a complex assessment that requires a thorough examination of the local healthcare infrastructure. The analysis would involve collecting data from various sources, evaluating the practices of local physicians, and assessing the availability of specialized care and support services. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to residents in the area.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Pembroke and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize physician locations, healthcare access points, and relevant demographic information, providing a powerful tool for understanding the local healthcare environment.