28436, Delco, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28436, Delco, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.53 percent of the residents in 28436 has some form of health insurance. 31.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.17 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 28436 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 400 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28436. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,449 health care providers accessible to residents in 28436, Delco, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28436 and Primary Care Availability in Delco

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28436 and the broader context of primary care availability in Delaware County (Delco), Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, focusing on factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all critical elements in navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.

ZIP Code 28436, located in North Carolina, requires a focused examination. Access to specialized care, including pulmonologists and oncologists, is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific ratio within 28436, and comparing it to state and national averages, is the first step. Public health data, insurance provider directories, and local hospital reports are crucial resources for this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of local practices are essential. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Does the practice offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals? Are they affiliated with larger hospitals or cancer centers, providing access to advanced treatment options like immunotherapy and targeted therapies? Patient reviews, online ratings, and physician referrals are valuable sources of information. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, indicates a coordinated approach to care, which is highly desirable.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within 28436 is a significant factor. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote consultations, and provide follow-up care. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, including virtual appointments for pulmonary consultations and oncology follow-ups, is vital. Does the local healthcare infrastructure support telemedicine, including reliable internet access for patients? The ability to remotely monitor patients and provide support can significantly impact outcomes.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The availability of mental health resources is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services? Are there partnerships with local organizations that provide support groups or individual counseling? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and adherence to treatment plans.

Shifting our focus to Delaware County (Delco), Pennsylvania, we examine the broader primary care landscape. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Their role in early detection and referral is critical. The availability of PCPs in Delco, measured by physician-to-patient ratios, directly impacts access to care. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care in Delco is a key consideration. Do PCPs actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, recommending LDCT scans for eligible patients? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? The integration of primary care with specialized cancer care is essential for a seamless patient experience.

The adoption of telemedicine in Delco’s primary care practices is also relevant. Telehealth can improve access to PCPs, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. The ability of PCPs to remotely monitor patients and provide support can enhance the overall quality of care.

Delco's primary care system should also address the mental health needs of its patients. PCPs can play a crucial role in identifying patients who require mental health support. Their ability to refer patients to mental health professionals and provide access to support groups is essential.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of high-quality practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – provides a comprehensive assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in both 28436 and Delco. These factors are intertwined, creating a complex network of care that impacts patient outcomes.

In conclusion, understanding the availability and quality of healthcare resources is critical for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. The factors discussed here – physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – are all vital components of a robust healthcare system.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in these areas, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to you.