28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.33 percent of the residents in 28442 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.85 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 28442 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28442. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,249 health care providers accessible to residents in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28442 and Primary Care Availability in Hallsboro

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28442, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and its implications for lung cancer screening and treatment. Additionally, we will assess the availability of mental health resources, a critical component of comprehensive cancer care, and the adoption of telemedicine, which can enhance patient access. Our focus will be on the town of Hallsboro, within 28442, and its surrounding areas.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection through screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, is crucial. This requires a readily available and well-informed primary care network. In Hallsboro, the physician-to-patient ratio is a primary concern. Due to the rural nature of the area, there may be a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. This scarcity can translate to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes.

The analysis of "standout practices" requires identifying those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient education. This could involve practices that actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines, utilize electronic health records to track patient risk factors, and offer comprehensive patient education materials. Practices with a dedicated focus on chronic disease management, including smoking cessation programs, would also be highly valued. These programs are essential in mitigating the risk factors associated with lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care in rural settings. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Telemedicine can also provide access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate vicinity of Hallsboro. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and HIPAA-compliant communication, will likely score higher in this analysis.

Mental health resources are an integral part of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing comprehensive support to patients. The analysis will examine the proximity of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group support), and the integration of mental health services within the primary care network. Ideally, practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals and actively screen patients for mental health concerns.

In the context of lung cancer, the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonology and oncology, is also a significant factor. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to Hallsboro and the ease with which patients can access their services. The presence of local hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, is also essential for timely diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists is vital for delivering coordinated and effective care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce a patient's risk. Practices that offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, will be viewed favorably. These programs can empower patients to take control of their health and reduce their risk of developing lung cancer.

The scoring system will consider several factors. Firstly, the physician-to-patient ratio within 28442 and the surrounding areas will be assessed. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, will receive a better score. Secondly, the analysis will evaluate the presence of "standout practices" that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and chronic disease management. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines and offer smoking cessation programs will score higher.

Thirdly, the analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine. Practices that offer virtual consultations and have integrated telemedicine platforms will receive a higher score. Fourthly, the availability of mental health resources will be evaluated. The proximity of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the integration of mental health services within the primary care network will be considered.

Finally, the analysis will consider the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonology and oncology, and the presence of local hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities. Practices that have established referral pathways to specialists and offer access to advanced diagnostic tools will score higher. The overall score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care available to residents of Hallsboro and the surrounding areas within ZIP code 28442.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Hallsboro and identify areas for improvement. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can work towards improving access to care, promoting early detection, and ultimately, improving patient outcomes for those affected by lung cancer. This data allows for a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and provides a valuable starting point for patients and healthcare providers alike.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital proximity, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.