28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.95 percent of the residents in 28429 has some form of health insurance. 37.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.83 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 28429 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,513 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28429. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,649 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,693 health care providers accessible to residents in 28429, Castle Hayne, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Castle Hayne, NC (ZIP Code 28429)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Castle Hayne, North Carolina, with a specific focus on lung cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive lung cancer support system. The objective is to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Castle Hayne, assessing primary care availability begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures necessitate accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, a general assessment can be made. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial early detection and diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, allowing for more frequent screenings and timely interventions.

Castle Hayne, being a relatively small community, may face challenges in terms of specialist availability. Oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons are essential for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management. The proximity to larger healthcare centers, such as those in Wilmington, becomes critical. The ability to quickly access specialized care, including advanced imaging (CT scans, PET scans), biopsies, and surgical interventions, significantly impacts patient outcomes. Analyzing the travel time to these specialized facilities is a key factor in determining the overall 'Lung Cancer Score'.

Beyond specialist availability, the presence of standout primary care practices within ZIP code 28429 is a crucial element. Identifying practices known for their proactive approach to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs, is vital. These practices may have implemented systems for identifying at-risk patients, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards. They may also offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, a critical component of lung cancer prevention. Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within Castle Hayne’s primary care practices and specialist networks warrants close examination. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients, potentially reducing the need for frequent travel and improving patient convenience. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients, including access to specialists and support groups, contributes positively to the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Integrating mental health resources into the care continuum is therefore essential. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local healthcare network is crucial. These professionals can provide support to patients and their families, helping them cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease. The integration of mental health services, whether through on-site counseling or referrals to external providers, significantly enhances the overall quality of care.

The availability of support groups and patient education resources also plays a vital role. These resources provide patients with a platform to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn about their condition and treatment options. Assessing the presence of local support groups and the availability of educational materials from reputable sources, such as the American Lung Association or the National Cancer Institute, is a key component of the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

Furthermore, the integration of palliative care services is crucial for managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and providing comprehensive support to patients and their families. Evaluating the availability of palliative care specialists and services within the local healthcare network is essential. This includes assessing the availability of pain management specialists, hospice care, and other supportive services.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Castle Hayne, NC (ZIP Code 28429) is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the presence of standout primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of support groups, and the availability of palliative care services all contribute to the overall score. A comprehensive assessment requires collecting and analyzing data from multiple sources, including healthcare providers, insurance companies, and government agencies.

The ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure, including the expansion of primary care services, the recruitment of specialists, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, can significantly improve the 'Lung Cancer Score'. The commitment of healthcare providers to evidence-based practices, patient-centered care, and the integration of mental health and palliative care services is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Castle Hayne, NC (ZIP Code 28429) is a multifaceted assessment reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care within the community. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. Further analysis and ongoing monitoring are necessary to track progress and ensure that the community has access to the resources needed to combat lung cancer effectively.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Castle Hayne, NC, and explore the locations of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.