28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 28392 has some form of health insurance. 60.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.01 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 28392 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 407 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28392. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 456 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,090 health care providers accessible to residents in 28392, Tar Heel, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on the availability of resources for lung cancer patients in and around Tar Heel, North Carolina (ZIP code 28392), with a particular emphasis on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility. This is a crucial starting point, as early detection and consistent follow-up are paramount in improving patient outcomes. The following assessment explores the landscape, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement.

Tar Heel, a small community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. A key factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this accurately requires data from multiple sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. Generally, rural areas like Tar Heel often experience a shortage of PCPs compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions. This situation can be exacerbated for lung cancer patients, who require frequent monitoring and specialized care.

Standout practices within the area, or those serving the area, should be evaluated based on several criteria. These include the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, and the provision of comprehensive care, including preventative screenings and chronic disease management. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or partner with local hospitals for specialized services deserve recognition. The presence of certified lung cancer specialists or affiliations with oncology centers would significantly enhance a practice’s score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a vital bridge, especially in areas with limited physical access to healthcare. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing travel burdens and facilitating timely access to care. The availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve the patient experience. Practices that embrace telemedicine and offer virtual appointments should be prioritized.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services or provide referrals to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing access to support groups, counseling services, and educational materials on coping with stress and anxiety.

The analysis must also consider the broader context of healthcare infrastructure in the region. This includes the proximity of hospitals and specialty clinics, the availability of diagnostic imaging services (such as CT scans and PET scans), and the presence of support services like physical therapy and palliative care. The quality of these resources directly impacts the quality of care lung cancer patients receive. A comprehensive assessment would involve evaluating the availability and accessibility of these services.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of communication between healthcare providers is vital. This includes the seamless exchange of patient information between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. The use of EHRs that allow for secure and efficient data sharing is essential. Practices that prioritize communication and collaboration are better equipped to provide coordinated and comprehensive care.

The availability of patient education resources is also important. Lung cancer patients need access to information about their disease, treatment options, and support services. Practices that provide educational materials, host patient education workshops, or offer access to online resources demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. This includes providing information on smoking cessation programs, healthy lifestyle choices, and financial assistance options.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is another factor. The acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs can significantly impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and provide information on financial assistance options demonstrate a commitment to serving the community. This includes providing information on Medicaid, Medicare, and other government programs.

The overall score for a practice or the area will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weighting of each factor will depend on its relative importance in improving patient outcomes. For example, the availability of specialized oncology services may be weighted more heavily than the availability of patient education resources. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available to lung cancer patients in the Tar Heel area.

The data collection process involves several steps. First, a thorough search of online resources, including physician directories, hospital websites, and insurance provider databases, is necessary. Second, direct contact with healthcare providers, including phone calls and emails, is essential to gather information about their services, appointment availability, and telemedicine capabilities. Third, patient surveys and focus groups can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care.

The final Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 28392 and primary care availability in Tar Heel will be a dynamic metric. It will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the opening of new practices, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new resources. This ongoing monitoring is crucial to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Tar Heel and surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to see physician locations, hospital proximity, and other vital data points in a clear and accessible format. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a clearer picture of the healthcare resources available to you.