28434, Council, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28434, Council, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.74 percent of the residents in 28434 has some form of health insurance. 36.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.94 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 28434 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28434. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 149 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 28434, Council, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 28434, focusing on the specific needs of the Council area. This assessment considers various factors, including physician availability, innovative healthcare practices, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive patient well-being.

Council, North Carolina, a community within the 28434 ZIP Code, faces unique healthcare challenges. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, impacting access to timely diagnoses and treatment for serious illnesses like lung cancer. Evaluating the local healthcare landscape requires a nuanced approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also their specialties, experience, and the resources available to support their patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios in 28434 are a critical indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care. Data from state and national sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board, should be analyzed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP Code. This analysis should differentiate between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective healthcare. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. They play a vital role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Council involves identifying the number of practicing PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, and their proximity to residents. This analysis should also consider the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments, which can be crucial for patients experiencing concerning symptoms.

Standout practices within the 28434 ZIP Code deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various areas, such as patient-centered care, innovative treatment approaches, or community outreach programs. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the implementation of best practices in lung cancer care. Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based screening guidelines, access to advanced diagnostic imaging, and the availability of multidisciplinary care teams involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling access to specialists who may not be locally available. Evaluating telemedicine adoption in 28434 involves assessing the availability of telehealth services among local healthcare providers, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a critical consideration.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health support in 28434 involves identifying the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, and the availability of mental health services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups. Coordination between oncologists and mental health professionals is crucial to ensure patients receive the integrated care they need.

The integration of mental health services into cancer care is particularly important. Patients with lung cancer often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals can improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and promote adherence to treatment plans. This requires a collaborative approach, where oncologists and mental health professionals work together to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis of lung cancer care in 28434 should also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and financial assistance programs. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, access financial resources, and cope with the challenges of their illness. The availability of these services can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of cancer care.

Furthermore, the analysis must evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing access to effective cessation programs is crucial for preventing new cases and improving outcomes for those who have been diagnosed. The analysis should assess the availability of evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups.

The assessment of lung cancer care in 28434 should also consider the availability of clinical trials. Clinical trials offer patients access to innovative treatments and can improve outcomes. The analysis should identify the availability of clinical trials in the area and assess patient access to these trials.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care in the Council area requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and support services. This analysis should identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape and inform strategies to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28434, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, explore the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.