28399, White Oak, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28399, White Oak, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.67 percent of the residents in 28399 has some form of health insurance. 62.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.20 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 28399 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 357 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28399. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 238 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 28399, White Oak, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28399 and White Oak Primary Care**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 28399, focusing on primary care availability in the White Oak area. The LCS is a hypothetical metric designed to evaluate the preparedness of a healthcare ecosystem to address lung cancer, encompassing factors like physician access, resource availability, and integration of supportive care. It is important to note that this is a theoretical exercise and does not represent an official medical rating.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy lies in accessible primary care. White Oak's primary care landscape is the starting point. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences early detection, screening, and overall patient management. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per physician is relatively low, generally indicates better access. Conversely, a low ratio, suggesting a shortage of PCPs, can create bottlenecks in the system, delaying crucial appointments and potentially hindering early diagnosis.

In ZIP code 28399, determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data from state medical boards, the US Census Bureau, and potentially, local hospital systems. This data would need to be compiled to ascertain the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. Without this specific data, only a general assessment can be made. However, a review of the broader regional trends may offer some insights. If the surrounding counties experience shortages, it is likely that ZIP code 28399 may face similar challenges.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. A high-performing primary care practice should emphasize preventative care, including proactive screening for lung cancer, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history). This involves consistent patient education, promoting smoking cessation programs, and adhering to recommended screening guidelines, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a deeper dive into their operational models. Are they patient-centered medical homes? Do they have dedicated care coordinators to assist patients through the healthcare system? Do they offer extended hours or same-day appointments? Practices that prioritize these elements, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, would score higher on the LCS.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The use of telemedicine, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has expanded access to care and improved convenience. Telemedicine can be used for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even for delivering mental health services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, and integrated it seamlessly into their workflow, would be considered more adaptable and patient-focused, contributing positively to their LCS.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but essential, component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can take a significant toll on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial. Practices that offer in-house mental health services, or have established referral networks with mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This is a critical factor in the LCS.

The integration of mental health services should extend beyond simply offering access. It should involve active screening for mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, and the provision of appropriate support. This may include individual therapy, group therapy, or medication management. The more comprehensive the mental health support, the higher the score.

The LCS also considers the availability of other supportive services. This includes access to palliative care specialists, who focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. It also includes access to support groups, where patients can connect with others who are facing similar challenges. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to a patient-centered approach.

Furthermore, the LCS would consider the availability of educational resources. Are patients provided with clear and concise information about lung cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects? Are they empowered to make informed decisions about their care? Practices that prioritize patient education would score higher.

Finally, the LCS would assess the level of collaboration and communication among healthcare providers. Does the primary care practice work closely with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists? Are referrals made promptly and efficiently? Effective communication and coordination of care are essential for ensuring optimal outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating the lung cancer readiness of ZIP code 28399 and White Oak primary care requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health and supportive resources. Without the specific data, a precise LCS score is impossible to assign. However, the factors outlined above provide a framework for a comprehensive assessment.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28399 and the surrounding areas, including primary care locations, physician specialties, and the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and healthcare access.