28390, Spring Lake, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28390, Spring Lake, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.47 percent of the residents in 28390 has some form of health insurance. 35.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.92 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 28390 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,548 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28390. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,030 health care providers accessible to residents in 28390, Spring Lake, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Spring Lake, NC (ZIP Code 28390)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28390, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of early detection and management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score, though not a formal metric, reflects the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the challenges of lung cancer.

Spring Lake, North Carolina, presents a unique demographic profile, and understanding this context is crucial. The town's population, a significant portion of which is associated with the nearby Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), can experience high rates of smoking and exposure to environmental hazards. This increases the potential for lung cancer incidence, making access to quality healthcare, particularly primary care, paramount.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Spring Lake is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the American Medical Association is essential to determine the exact ratio. A below-average ratio, compared to state or national averages, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating better access to care, would improve the score.

Identifying standout primary care practices is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, comprehensive patient education, and coordinated care are particularly valuable. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as those with a smoking history, using guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that offer convenient appointment scheduling, efficient patient communication systems, and a focus on patient-centered care would also score highly. Examining patient reviews, practice websites, and publicly available data on quality metrics (if available) can help identify these leading practices.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can enhance patient convenience and facilitate early detection and management of lung cancer. The ability to receive follow-up care, discuss test results, and access educational resources remotely can significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of telemedicine services, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a key element in assessing the area's preparedness.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial in the context of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients through their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, or that have established referral pathways to mental health providers, would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and access to palliative care services also contributes to a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

The Lung Cancer Score is also impacted by the availability of specialists. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability to access pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists in a timely manner is critical. The proximity of hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, is also important. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance would significantly improve the score. This ensures patients have access to the full spectrum of care, from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship support.

Furthermore, the degree to which practices collaborate and share patient information is crucial. A coordinated approach, where primary care physicians work closely with specialists, radiologists, and other healthcare providers, can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and participate in regional healthcare networks are more likely to foster this collaborative environment. This seamless information exchange helps to ensure that all providers are aware of the patient's condition and treatment plan.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Spring Lake (28390) involves a multifaceted analysis. It necessitates evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout primary care practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and considering the availability of mental health resources and specialist care. The presence of a robust primary care system, coupled with readily available specialist care, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health support, significantly improves the score. The overall goal is to determine the preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the challenges of lung cancer, promoting early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Spring Lake, NC, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights and can assist in understanding the healthcare landscape in your area.