28383, Rowland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.88 percent of the residents in 28383 has some form of health insurance. 49.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.52 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 28383 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,721 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28383. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,191 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,999 health care providers accessible to residents in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rowland, NC (ZIP Code 28383)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within Rowland, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28383). The focus is on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all factors influencing a patient's journey from initial symptoms to potential recovery. We will assess these elements and provide a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the available data.

The primary care landscape in Rowland is the foundation upon which lung cancer care is built. Early detection is crucial, and the primary care physician (PCP) is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms. Access to a PCP significantly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis and treatment. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as the patient-to-physician ratio. A high ratio suggests potential challenges in scheduling appointments, leading to delays in care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 28383 is a critical indicator. While precise figures require extensive data analysis, we can use publicly available information and regional averages to estimate the situation. Rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare professionals. If the ratio is unfavorable, residents may need to travel to nearby towns or cities for primary care services. This travel time can be a significant barrier, especially for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The scarcity of PCPs can also impact the ability of patients to receive regular check-ups and screenings, which are vital for early detection of lung cancer.

Standout practices within the region deserve special attention. Identifying practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection is essential. These practices may have implemented advanced screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. They may also have established strong referral networks with specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Practices that actively participate in community outreach and education programs, raising awareness about lung cancer risks and prevention, are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 28383 will be a factor in our score. Practices that offer telehealth options can improve access to care, particularly for patients with limited mobility or those living in remote areas. The availability of virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management can significantly improve the patient experience.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The availability of these resources within Rowland or the surrounding areas will be assessed. This includes the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the accessibility of support groups.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite metric based on the factors discussed. We would assign points based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with advanced screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care and a more supportive environment for lung cancer patients. The score would be a relative measure, comparing Rowland to other areas with similar demographics and healthcare infrastructure.

The score will reflect the specific challenges and opportunities in Rowland. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while the presence of a practice offering telemedicine consultations would have a positive effect. The availability of mental health support services would also contribute to the overall score. The score is a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

Specific practices in the region should be investigated to determine their commitment to lung cancer screening and treatment. This would include researching the availability of LDCT scans, the referral patterns to specialists, and the integration of mental health services. The practices that actively participate in community outreach and education programs are particularly valuable. These practices often have a more patient-centered approach, which can improve outcomes for lung cancer patients.

The adoption of telemedicine is also a key area to assess. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are more likely to provide convenient and accessible care. The availability of telehealth options can significantly improve the patient experience, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The ability to receive follow-up care and participate in educational programs remotely can also improve outcomes.

Mental health support is a vital component of lung cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The presence of mental health clinics, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the accessibility of support groups will all be assessed. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can improve the patient's quality of life.

The final Lung Cancer Score for 28383 will be a reflection of these factors. The score is not a definitive measure of the quality of care but rather an indicator of the resources available to patients in the area. It is a tool that can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better healthcare access. The score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their care and by healthcare providers to improve their services.

For a more detailed, interactive, and visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rowland, NC, and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care providers, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring the power of geographic data visualization.