28405, Wilmington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.12 percent of the residents in 28405 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.99 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 28405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28405. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,723 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 28405, Wilmington, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28405)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within the 28405 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and the quality of medical resources, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers factors critical to patient outcomes, including physician density, access to specialized care, adoption of innovative technologies, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In the 28405 area, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a crucial metric. An ideal ratio allows for sufficient time for thorough examinations, patient education, and proactive screening recommendations. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data on this ratio, derived from publicly available sources and healthcare provider directories, will be used to assess the accessibility of primary care within the ZIP code.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is also important. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adhering to screening guidelines for high-risk individuals (e.g., smokers, those with a family history of lung cancer). The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists is another critical factor. EHRs streamline referrals, allowing for more coordinated and efficient care. The extent to which local PCPs utilize these systems and adhere to best practices will be evaluated.

Specialized care is a cornerstone of effective lung cancer treatment. The presence and accessibility of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within or near the 28405 ZIP code are essential. The analysis will identify the number of specialists practicing in the area, their affiliations with hospitals and treatment centers, and their areas of expertise. This will include assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for early detection, and state-of-the-art treatment modalities, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

The analysis will also consider the reputation and performance of standout practices and providers. This involves examining patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available data on outcomes, such as survival rates and patient satisfaction. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing a multidisciplinary approach, and actively participating in clinical trials will be recognized.

The integration of technology plays a significant role in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, in particular, has the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers, including the availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. The effectiveness of these technologies in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs will be evaluated.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients. This includes assessing the accessibility of support groups, individual therapy, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their illness. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan will be considered.

Furthermore, the analysis will delve into the specifics of lung cancer screening programs and their accessibility within the 28405 ZIP code. This includes evaluating the availability of low-dose CT scans, the eligibility criteria for screening programs, and the awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about the importance of early detection. The analysis will also consider the follow-up procedures for patients who receive positive screening results, including timely referrals to specialists and access to appropriate treatment.

The economic considerations of lung cancer care are also important. The analysis will consider the cost of treatment, including the availability of financial assistance programs and the accessibility of affordable medications. The impact of health insurance coverage on access to care will also be evaluated. The goal is to identify any potential barriers to care related to cost and to highlight resources that can help patients navigate the financial aspects of their treatment.

Finally, the analysis will consider the community resources available to lung cancer patients and their families. This includes the presence of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. The analysis will assess the accessibility of these resources and their effectiveness in providing support and information to patients and their loved ones. The goal is to identify any gaps in community support and to highlight opportunities for improvement.

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the lung cancer care landscape in the 28405 ZIP code. By considering the various factors discussed above, it aims to provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for potential improvement. The findings of this analysis can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients about the resources available and the challenges that need to be addressed to improve the quality of lung cancer care in the community.

For a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, NC, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Utilize the data-driven insights to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to you and your community.