28432, Clarendon, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 28432 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.58 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 28432 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 323 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28432. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28432 & Primary Care Availability in Clarendon**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28432, which encompasses parts of Leland, North Carolina, and assessing primary care availability in Clarendon, a rural community, requires a nuanced approach. We'll evaluate factors crucial for lung cancer detection and care, including physician access, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. A "Lung Cancer Score," while not a formal metric, will be synthesized based on these factors, providing a comparative analysis.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. In 28432, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Information on this ratio is publicly available through sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. A low ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments for routine check-ups, screenings, and referrals to specialists.

In Clarendon, the situation may be more challenging. Rural areas often face a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity necessitates longer travel times for appointments, potentially deterring individuals from seeking care. The availability of transportation services, such as public transit or community-based programs, becomes critical in mitigating this access barrier. The score reflects the ease with which residents can access a primary care physician for initial assessments and ongoing management.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care**

Within 28432, identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to lung cancer screening and early detection. This includes assessing whether they offer or readily refer patients for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhere to established guidelines, and maintain a robust patient education program will receive a higher score.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is another vital component. While these specialists may not be directly located within 28432, the ease of referral and access to these specialists in nearby cities like Wilmington is crucial. The score considers the proximity of these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process. A well-coordinated network of care, where primary care physicians can seamlessly connect patients to specialists, is highly valued.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in 28432 and the Clarendon area can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those facing transportation challenges or limited mobility. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher score.

The score also evaluates the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer-specific needs. This includes access to virtual support groups, educational resources, and consultations with specialists via video conferencing. The integration of telehealth can help bridge geographical gaps and provide patients with convenient access to essential services.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an essential component of comprehensive care. The score considers the accessibility of these resources within 28432 and the surrounding areas.

Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to mental health professionals will receive a higher score. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is also a positive indicator. Addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients is crucial for their overall well-being and can significantly impact their treatment outcomes.

**Specific Considerations and the Clarendon Context**

In Clarendon, the assessment must account for the unique challenges of a rural setting. The score will consider the availability of mobile screening units that travel to the community, providing convenient access to LDCT scans. It will also evaluate the presence of community health workers who can provide education and support to residents.

Furthermore, the score will assess the availability of financial assistance programs to help patients cover the costs of screenings, treatment, and medications. Rural communities often have a higher proportion of residents with limited financial resources, making access to affordable care a critical factor.

**Synthesizing the Lung Cancer Score**

The final "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite assessment, weighing the factors discussed above. It is a qualitative evaluation rather than a quantifiable metric. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to support lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient well-being. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing physician access, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

The score for 28432 will be influenced by its proximity to larger healthcare centers and the presence of established practices. The score for Clarendon will be heavily influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of mobile screening units, and the availability of community support services.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in 28432 and Clarendon is essential for improving lung cancer outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare resources and access points in these areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping capabilities can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and healthcare access points, helping you to better understand the healthcare landscape and identify areas where resources are needed most. Visit CartoChrome.com today to explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.