28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.17 percent of the residents in 28425 has some form of health insurance. 39.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.94 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 28425 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,349 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28425. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,873 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,694 health care providers accessible to residents in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 28425 (Burgaw, North Carolina) and evaluates the overall primary care landscape regarding its capacity to address lung cancer risk factors, early detection, and patient support. This score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices demonstrating exemplary care.

The foundation of a strong LCS rests on the availability of accessible primary care. In Burgaw, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This, in turn, can negatively impact the LCS. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28425 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio is preferable, allowing for more comprehensive patient care and potentially earlier intervention for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The quality of primary care extends beyond the sheer number of physicians. Identifying standout practices that excel in lung cancer prevention and early detection is essential. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to patient screening, including regular check-ups, smoking cessation counseling, and the utilization of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. These practices also typically have robust systems for patient education and support, including resources for navigating the healthcare system and managing the emotional challenges associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

The adoption of telemedicine plays a significant role in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas like Burgaw. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those residing far from medical facilities, and those seeking specialized consultations. The extent to which primary care practices in 28425 have embraced telemedicine is a key factor in the LCS. Practices that offer telemedicine options are likely to have a higher score due to their enhanced accessibility and convenience.

Mental health support is another critical component of a comprehensive LCS. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that offer or connect patients with mental health resources are better equipped to provide holistic care. This can include on-site mental health professionals, referrals to therapists and counselors, and access to support groups. The availability of these resources significantly impacts the LCS, as it demonstrates a commitment to addressing the emotional well-being of patients alongside their physical health.

Assessing the specific practices within 28425 requires a deeper dive. Research should involve identifying the primary care providers in the area and evaluating their services. This includes examining their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and, if possible, conducting interviews with patients and staff. Key questions to ask include: Does the practice offer smoking cessation programs? Does the practice proactively screen patients for lung cancer risk factors? Does the practice utilize LDCT scans for eligible patients? Does the practice have established protocols for referring patients to specialists? What mental health resources are available?

The overall LCS for Burgaw, NC, will be a composite score based on these factors. A high score indicates a strong primary care infrastructure, with accessible physicians, proactive screening protocols, telemedicine options, and robust mental health support. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

The analysis would also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance. While primary care is the foundation, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists is crucial for patients requiring advanced treatment. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access their services are essential considerations.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within 28425 is also important. Are primary care practices evenly distributed throughout the ZIP code, or are there underserved areas? This analysis should consider the location of practices relative to the population and identify any disparities in access to care.

Finally, the analysis should incorporate data on the demographics of the population within 28425. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and smoking prevalence can influence lung cancer risk and should be considered when evaluating the LCS. A higher smoking prevalence, for example, would necessitate a greater emphasis on smoking cessation programs and early detection efforts.

By thoroughly analyzing these factors, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score can be developed for Burgaw, NC, providing valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape and highlighting areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of residents at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer.

This assessment is designed to be a starting point. It is critical to continuously monitor and update the LCS based on changes in the healthcare landscape, including new technologies, treatment options, and population demographics. The goal is to foster a proactive and patient-centered approach to lung cancer care, ensuring that all residents of Burgaw have access to the resources and support they need.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Burgaw, NC, including physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.