28435, Currie, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28435, Currie, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.76 percent of the residents in 28435 has some form of health insurance. 49.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.55 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 28435 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 467 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28435. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 417 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,169 health care providers accessible to residents in 28435, Currie, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28435 and Primary Care in Currie, NC**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 28435, focusing on primary care availability and its implications for lung cancer detection and treatment. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in the fight against lung cancer. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

Currie, North Carolina, the primary population center within ZIP code 28435, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The rural nature of the area can influence access to care, particularly for specialized services like pulmonology and oncology. Early detection of lung cancer is paramount, and this requires readily available primary care physicians (PCPs) who can screen patients, order diagnostic tests, and make timely referrals.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally indicates better access to care. Assessing this ratio in 28435 requires data collection from multiple sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board, local hospitals, and community health centers. Data analysis will reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. This data will then be compared to state and national averages to determine if Currie faces a shortage or surplus of primary care physicians.

The availability of primary care directly impacts lung cancer outcomes. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms like chronic cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. They can order chest X-rays, which is an initial screening tool, and refer patients for more advanced imaging, such as CT scans, if necessary. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer prognoses.

**Standout Practices: Quality and Innovation**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative practices. Key metrics to consider are the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and diagnosis. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers), deserve recognition.

Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with high patient satisfaction scores are likely to have a more patient-centered approach, which can improve adherence to treatment plans and overall outcomes. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication, data sharing, and the tracking of patient health information, which can be particularly beneficial in managing chronic conditions like lung cancer.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by practices in 28435 is crucial. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and associated costs. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical centers.

The types of telemedicine services offered are also important. These can range from virtual consultations with PCPs to remote monitoring of patients with lung cancer. The availability of telehealth services with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly improve access to expert care. Assessing the availability of telehealth technology, including video conferencing capabilities and secure messaging platforms, is essential.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical aspect of comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in 28435 involves identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists practicing in the area.

Assessing the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is also essential. These resources provide emotional support, education, and a sense of community, which can significantly improve patients' quality of life. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also an important factor. This integration can facilitate early identification of mental health issues and streamline access to care.

**Conclusion: A Holistic View**

The healthcare landscape in 28435, particularly in Currie, presents a complex picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The findings of this analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and strengthening mental health support. By addressing these challenges, the community can improve lung cancer outcomes and enhance the overall health of its residents.

The data and insights presented in this analysis can be visualized and explored further using advanced mapping tools. For a comprehensive understanding of healthcare resources in 28435 and beyond, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other critical factors influencing health outcomes.