28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 28374 has some form of health insurance. 43.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.80 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 28374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,970 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 28374, Pinehurst, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Pinehurst, NC (ZIP Code 28374)**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer care within ZIP code 28374 (Pinehurst, NC), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will examine the availability and quality of primary care, a critical entry point for early detection and referral, alongside the broader context of physician resources, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for effective patient outcomes.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy lies in robust primary care. Pinehurst, known for its retirement community, likely has a significant population at higher risk. Therefore, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within 28374 is the initial step. National averages provide a benchmark, but local conditions, including the prevalence of specialists and the demographics of the patient population, must be considered. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater concentration of PCPs per capita, generally correlates with better access to care, facilitating timely screenings and referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This includes the availability of preventive services, such as lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (e.g., those with a history of smoking). The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, following recommendations from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is a key indicator of quality. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, including the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, demonstrate a commitment to early detection.

Identifying standout practices within 28374 involves examining their patient reviews, their participation in quality improvement initiatives, and their integration of technology. Practices that have embraced electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often provide more efficient care coordination and communication. These systems can facilitate the tracking of patient risk factors, the scheduling of screenings, and the sharing of information with specialists. Furthermore, practices that are part of larger healthcare systems may have access to more resources and expertise, potentially improving the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact lung cancer care, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its ability to connect patients with specialists, provide remote monitoring, and deliver follow-up care is invaluable. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within Pinehurst requires investigating the availability of virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other relevant specialists. Practices that offer telehealth options can improve access to specialized care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and potentially improve patient outcomes.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The integration of mental health services can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance the overall quality of life.

The availability of specialized care is another factor. This includes the presence of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the patient population is critical. The ability to receive timely consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment is directly related to patient outcomes. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, or access to one within a reasonable distance, is a positive indicator.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, is essential. These programs can assist patients in quitting smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer, and improving their overall health. Practices that offer or refer patients to these programs demonstrate a proactive approach to prevention and care. The integration of these services into the overall care model is a sign of a comprehensive approach.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Pinehurst, NC, would be a composite of these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care, the quality of screening practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the access to specialized care. The score would reflect the overall capacity of the healthcare system to effectively address the needs of lung cancer patients. A higher score would indicate a more robust and comprehensive system, likely leading to better patient outcomes.

The analysis would also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. These include insurance coverage, transportation availability, and the cost of healthcare. Addressing these barriers is essential to ensure that all patients have equal access to quality care. The score would need to be sensitive to these factors to provide a truly accurate assessment.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Pinehurst, NC, is a complex assessment that requires a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. It is essential to consider the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of technology, the presence of mental health resources, and the access to specialized care. By considering these factors, a more accurate assessment of the healthcare system's capacity to effectively address the needs of lung cancer patients can be made.

For a visual representation of physician locations, access to specialists, and other crucial healthcare data within ZIP code 28374 and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome.