The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 87.41 percent of the residents in 28403 has some form of health insurance. 24.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 28403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 6,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28403. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,082 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,878 health care providers accessible to residents in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28403, Wilmington, North Carolina
Lung Cancer Score | 18 |
---|---|
People Score | 4 |
Provider Score | 63 |
Hospital Score | 23 |
Travel Score | 51 |
28403 | Wilmington | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28403), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. This evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In ZIP Code 28403, understanding the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is paramount. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can create bottlenecks in initial screenings and referrals, potentially delaying diagnosis. Similarly, a scarcity of specialists can lead to longer wait times for consultations and treatment, impacting patient outcomes. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide insights into these ratios, revealing potential areas of concern or strength within the local healthcare system. This information is crucial for residents seeking timely access to care.
Standout practices within the Wilmington area play a significant role in shaping the quality of lung cancer care. Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to early detection, advanced treatment modalities, and comprehensive patient support is essential. This involves researching practices that offer low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, adhering to national guidelines for early detection, and utilizing advanced treatment options such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Furthermore, practices that prioritize multidisciplinary care, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists, often provide a more holistic and effective approach to patient management. Patient reviews, online resources, and professional referrals can help identify these leading practices.
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding healthcare access, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in Wilmington is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving convenience for patients. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, including the types of platforms used, the scope of services offered, and the ease of access, is crucial. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine can enhance patient engagement, improve communication, and potentially expedite the delivery of care.
The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. The availability of mental health resources within the Wilmington healthcare system is a vital component of comprehensive care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in oncology support. Assessing the availability of counseling services, support groups, and psychiatric care is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or provide referrals to such services, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of patients. Integration can include on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or readily available referral pathways.
Evaluating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28403 requires a comprehensive approach, going beyond simple physician counts. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources provides a more nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This detailed assessment can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and advocate for improved access and quality of services.
The data gathered should be continuously updated. Healthcare is dynamic, and the availability of physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of mental health services are constantly evolving. Regular reviews of physician directories, practice websites, and patient feedback are essential to maintain an accurate understanding of the local healthcare environment. This ongoing assessment is crucial for ensuring that patients have access to the best possible care.
The availability of specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs and palliative care, also significantly impacts lung cancer patient outcomes. Assessing the presence of these services within the Wilmington healthcare system is crucial. Smoking cessation programs can help prevent new diagnoses and improve the effectiveness of treatment. Palliative care services can provide comfort and support to patients and their families, improving quality of life throughout the treatment journey. Practices that offer or refer to these services demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.
In addition to the factors discussed above, the affordability of healthcare services is a critical consideration. Assessing the acceptance of insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing are all important factors in ensuring that patients can access the care they need. Practices that prioritize affordability and provide clear information about costs can help alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment.
The quality of communication and coordination among healthcare providers is essential for effective lung cancer care. Assessing the use of electronic health records (EHRs), the frequency of multidisciplinary team meetings, and the responsiveness of providers to patient inquiries are all important factors. Practices that prioritize clear communication and seamless coordination can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall care experience.
The analysis above, while providing a general overview, can be greatly enhanced through the use of visual tools. To gain a spatial understanding of healthcare resources in Wilmington, NC, and to visualize physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and intuitive representation of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.
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