28401, Wilmington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.39 percent of the residents in 28401 has some form of health insurance. 44.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.42 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 28401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28401. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28401)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Wilmington, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28401 ZIP code. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors impacting a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from lung cancer. This information is presented as a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, providing a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Wilmington, and particularly within the 28401 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of patient outcomes. Early detection is paramount in lung cancer treatment, and primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact, initiating screenings and referrals for further diagnostic testing. The density of primary care physicians, measured as a physician-to-patient ratio, offers a glimpse into the accessibility of care. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments and increased opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals. However, simply counting physicians isn't enough; the distribution of these physicians across the community, and their acceptance of new patients, also plays a vital role.

Standout practices within the 28401 area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. These practices often integrate multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The presence of these specialists within a single practice or network facilitates seamless communication and collaboration, leading to more coordinated and personalized treatment plans. Furthermore, these standout practices are likely to invest in advanced diagnostic technologies, such as low-dose CT scanners for early detection, and offer access to cutting-edge treatments, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy. The reputation of these practices, measured by patient reviews, online ratings, and physician referrals, provides valuable insights into their quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in areas with physician shortages or geographical barriers. In the context of lung cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians and specialists in the 28401 ZIP code is a key indicator of the healthcare system's adaptability and its commitment to patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access to care, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve outcomes, especially for patients residing in areas with limited transportation options.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. The integration of mental health resources into the care continuum is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups who can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health needs and provide referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a holistic approach to care. The availability of mental health services, both within the healthcare system and in the broader community, is a significant factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score" of the 28401 ZIP code.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the 28401 ZIP code is a composite assessment of all these factors. It is not a single number, but rather a nuanced evaluation that considers the interplay of physician availability, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and compassionate lung cancer care, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement. This analysis aims to provide a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in Wilmington, NC, and to highlight areas where the healthcare system can be strengthened to better serve patients.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data will provide a quantitative measure of physician density. Identifying standout practices requires a combination of online research, including patient reviews and ratings, and consultation with local healthcare professionals. Telemedicine adoption rates can be assessed through surveys of local practices and a review of their online presence. The availability of mental health resources can be determined by examining local directories of mental health providers and assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care and specialist practices.

The 28401 ZIP code may present a mixed picture. While Wilmington is a growing city with access to a variety of healthcare providers, the specific availability of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources may vary. The presence of a major hospital system in the area suggests a potential for comprehensive cancer care, but the distribution of resources across the community is critical. Ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access, expand telemedicine capabilities, and integrate mental health services will be crucial for enhancing the "Lung Cancer Score" and improving patient outcomes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular assessments and updates are essential to track progress and identify areas where further improvements are needed. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in the 28401 ZIP code and provides a framework for ongoing evaluation and improvement.

Want to visualize the data and explore the healthcare landscape of Wilmington, NC, and the 28401 ZIP code? **Click here to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, healthcare access, and other critical factors impacting lung cancer care.**