28441, Garland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28441, Garland, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.50 percent of the residents in 28441 has some form of health insurance. 56.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.86 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 28441 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28441. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 525 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 84 health care providers accessible to residents in 28441, Garland, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare in ZIP Code 28441 and Garland, North Carolina

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28441 (covering portions of Garland, North Carolina) with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will assess primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This information is crucial for residents and healthcare providers alike, aiming to highlight strengths and weaknesses within the local system.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms or at high risk due to factors like smoking history. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Garland is therefore critical. We need to examine the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, factoring in the population size to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to calculate this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are practices concentrated in one area, leaving other parts of Garland underserved? Easy access to care requires consideration of transportation options for patients, especially those with limited mobility or financial resources. Public transportation availability and the proximity of practices to pharmacies and other essential services also play a role.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of this analysis. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including lung cancer screening for eligible patients, deserve recognition. We will look for evidence of proactive screening programs, adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., using low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and the availability of patient education materials. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas. We will assess the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, including the types of services provided (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers and improve patient convenience.

Mental health resources are integral to overall patient well-being, particularly for individuals diagnosed with a serious illness like lung cancer. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can be significant, and access to mental health support is essential for coping with the disease and its treatment. We will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the ZIP code, including the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. We will also look for evidence of collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers, ensuring seamless access to mental health support for patients.

The healthcare landscape in Garland, and specifically within ZIP Code 28441, is likely to be influenced by its rural character. This can present both challenges and opportunities. Challenges may include limited access to specialists, fewer healthcare facilities, and potential difficulties in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. However, the close-knit community can also foster strong patient-provider relationships and facilitate the development of innovative healthcare models.

To assess the quality of care, we will look for evidence of practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education programs. These programs can raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, promote early detection, and provide support to individuals affected by the disease. Practices that participate in community health fairs, offer smoking cessation programs, and partner with local organizations to provide health education demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of the community.

We will also consider the availability of support groups and other resources for lung cancer patients and their families. Support groups provide a valuable forum for sharing experiences, providing emotional support, and accessing information about treatment options and resources. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

Finally, we will examine the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment options, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. While Garland may not have its own dedicated cancer center, we will assess the proximity of patients to these services, including travel times and transportation options. The availability of these services is critical for ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate treatment.

This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28441, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources, we aim to provide valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis will help to identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all residents of Garland have access to high-quality lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Garland and surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, explore the power of mapping with CartoChrome.