28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.37 percent of the residents in 28431 has some form of health insurance. 49.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.67 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 28431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28431. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,255 health care providers accessible to residents in 28431, Chadbourn, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Chadbourn, NC (ZIP Code 28431)

This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of lung cancer-related healthcare within the ZIP code 28431, encompassing Chadbourn, North Carolina. The assessment considers primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" based on the observed healthcare landscape, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Chadbourn, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Access to specialized medical care, particularly for complex conditions like lung cancer, can be limited in rural areas. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect these realities, acknowledging the need for resourcefulness and innovative approaches to patient care.

**Primary Care Availability and its Impact**

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. A high density of PCPs within a reasonable geographic radius is crucial. This analysis will consider the number of PCPs practicing within Chadbourn and the surrounding areas, assessing the patient-to-physician ratio. A favorable ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, suggests better access to preventative screenings, timely diagnoses, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. Conversely, a limited number of PCPs could lead to delayed diagnoses and increased strain on existing healthcare resources.

The analysis will also delve into the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? The structure of these practices can impact the range of services offered, the availability of specialists, and the integration of care. Practices connected to larger systems often have greater access to advanced diagnostic tools and specialized oncology services.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio: A Critical Metric**

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can result in longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. This analysis will calculate the PCP-to-patient ratio specifically for Chadbourn, comparing it to regional and national averages. This comparison will highlight the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the vicinity. While Chadbourn may not have these specialists within its immediate boundaries, the proximity to larger cities like Wilmington, NC, and the ease of travel to those locations will be factored into the overall score. The ability to quickly access specialized care is a vital component of effective lung cancer treatment.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. This involves evaluating factors like the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction scores, and the adoption of innovative healthcare practices. Practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, comprehensive patient education, and coordinated care will be recognized.

This analysis will seek to identify practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals. These programs, often involving low-dose CT scans, are critical for detecting lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear and accessible information about risk factors, symptoms, and screening guidelines, will also be highlighted.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by local practices is a significant factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and offer convenient follow-up appointments.

The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices have integrated telemedicine into their services. Are virtual consultations available? Are patients able to access their medical records and communicate with their providers electronically? Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The analysis will consider whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The integration of mental health support into the overall treatment plan is essential for addressing the psychological challenges associated with lung cancer.

**Overall Score and Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Chadbourn (ZIP code 28431) will be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It will provide a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. The score will not be a static number but a dynamic evaluation, acknowledging the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve patient care.

The final score will provide insights into the overall accessibility and quality of lung cancer-related healthcare in Chadbourn. It will inform residents about available resources and encourage healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement.

**Leveraging CartoChrome Maps for Enhanced Insights**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Chadbourn and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing users to easily identify areas with high and low access to care. This visual approach can provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and assist in making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.