28452, Longwood, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.84 percent of the residents in 28452 has some form of health insurance. 50.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.81 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 28452 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28452. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,245 health care providers accessible to residents in 28452, Longwood, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for ZIP Code 28452 and Longwood Primary Care

This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape surrounding lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28452 (likely referring to Shallotte, North Carolina) and the availability of primary care resources in Longwood, Florida, with a particular focus on factors impacting patient outcomes. We will evaluate the quality of care, access to specialists, and supportive resources, ultimately offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, albeit an informal one, based on available data and contextual understanding. The complexities of healthcare necessitate acknowledging this is an overview, not a definitive ranking.

**ZIP Code 28452: Shallotte, NC – A Coastal Perspective**

Shallotte, situated along the North Carolina coast, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities concerning lung cancer care. The area's demographics, including an aging population and potential exposure to environmental risk factors, underscores the importance of robust healthcare infrastructure. Evaluating this area requires considering several key elements.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Specialist Access:** The physician-to-patient ratio within 28452 is a critical indicator. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Rural areas often face physician shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential delays in crucial interventions. Data on the specific number of physicians practicing within the zip code is essential. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide valuable insights.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of specialists available is vital. Proximity to a comprehensive cancer center or a hospital with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities is a significant advantage. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists specializing in lung diseases is crucial for early detection and management. Access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy services locally minimizes the burden on patients and their families.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:** Identifying standout practices within the area can highlight best practices and provide benchmarks for quality of care. Evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and participation in clinical trials can identify those practices excelling in this area. Practices that actively promote lung cancer awareness and offer smoking cessation programs demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, which is vital.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:** Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in rural areas, to bridge the gap in access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices and hospitals can significantly improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists can reduce travel burdens, especially for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care. The availability of remote monitoring tools can also enhance patient management and early detection of complications.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:** Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient support. Access to support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families provides a valuable platform for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

**Primary Care Availability in Longwood, Florida**

Longwood, Florida, a suburban area, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities regarding primary care availability. While generally having better access than rural areas, other issues can affect the overall quality of lung cancer care.

**Primary Care Physician Density and Patient Load:** The density of primary care physicians in Longwood is a key factor. A higher density generally indicates better access, but the patient load each physician carries is equally important. Overburdened PCPs may have less time to dedicate to individual patient needs, potentially impacting the thoroughness of screenings and referrals.

**Referral Networks and Specialist Coordination:** The strength of referral networks between primary care physicians and specialists is vital. Efficient communication and collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists are essential for seamless patient care. Practices that have established referral pathways and utilize electronic health records to share patient information facilitate coordinated care.

**Screening Programs and Early Detection Initiatives:** The availability of lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals, is crucial. Primary care practices that actively promote lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans and adhere to national guidelines play a vital role in early detection. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

**The “Lung Cancer Score” – An Informal Assessment**

Based on the considerations above, assigning a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" without comprehensive, real-time data is impossible. However, we can infer a general assessment.

**ZIP Code 28452 (Shallotte, NC):** Given the potential for rural challenges, including physician shortages and limited access to specialized care, the score would likely be moderate. Improvements could be seen with increased specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support.

**Longwood, Florida:** Longwood likely has a higher score due to better access to primary care and specialist services. However, the score is dependent on factors like the quality of referral networks, the presence of screening programs, and the integration of mental health support.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

The quality of lung cancer care is a complex interplay of factors, including physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and supportive resources. Understanding these elements is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

To gain a deeper, more geographically specific understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest needs and opportunities for improvement. Visit their website today to explore the potential of data-driven insights for better healthcare planning and resource allocation.