28379, Rockingham, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 28379 has some form of health insurance. 51.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.75 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 28379 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,451 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28379. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 670 health care providers accessible to residents in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for ZIP Code 28379 and Rockingham Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28379, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and successful treatment. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all factors contributing to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the region. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in Rockingham, North Carolina, and offer insights into potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection, often achieved through regular screenings and prompt attention to symptoms, significantly improves patient outcomes. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. Within ZIP Code 28379, which encompasses a significant portion of Rockingham, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and ultimately, a reduced chance of early diagnosis. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the American Medical Association, allows for an estimation of this ratio. A detailed analysis would compare this ratio to state and national averages, revealing whether Rockingham faces a shortage of primary care providers.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is equally important. Several factors contribute to a practice's "Lung Cancer Score." The presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) are all crucial. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide education on lung cancer risk factors are also considered high-scoring. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP Code requires a review of patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, interviews with local healthcare professionals. These practices, demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and patient education, become benchmarks for the region.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Rockingham. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs from the comfort of their homes. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in 28379 directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, contacting practices directly, and reviewing insurance coverage for telehealth services.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Mental health resources are therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. The "Lung Cancer Score" incorporates the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community. Proximity to these resources is crucial, as is the integration of mental health services into the primary care setting. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with local mental health organizations receive higher scores. Investigating the availability of these resources involves reviewing local directories, contacting primary care practices, and researching community health initiatives.

Furthermore, a crucial aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the accessibility of diagnostic tools and treatment options. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department, access to advanced imaging technologies (such as CT scans and PET scans), and the availability of chemotherapy and radiation therapy are all essential. Proximity to these facilities and the efficiency of referral pathways between primary care practices and specialists significantly impact the overall score. This analysis involves assessing the capabilities of local hospitals, reviewing referral patterns, and examining patient wait times for diagnostic procedures and treatment.

The assessment of primary care availability in Rockingham requires consideration of factors beyond the immediate ZIP Code. Patients may seek care outside of 28379, so an understanding of the broader regional healthcare landscape is necessary. This includes examining the physician-to-patient ratios in neighboring areas, the availability of specialists within a reasonable driving distance, and the transportation options available to patients. This wider perspective provides a more comprehensive picture of the accessibility of care for residents of Rockingham.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a holistic assessment that considers the interconnectedness of various factors. A high score reflects a community with a strong primary care foundation, readily accessible specialists, robust telemedicine capabilities, and readily available mental health support. A low score highlights areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine adoption, or a lack of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve the quality of lung cancer care in Rockingham.

This analysis is a starting point. The complexities of healthcare require continuous monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates to the "Lung Cancer Score," incorporating new data and reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape, are essential. This ongoing assessment helps ensure that the community is equipped to address the challenges of lung cancer and provide the best possible care for its residents.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of these factors, and to see how they correlate with other health and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps offers a comprehensive platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to see the "Lung Cancer Score" in action.