28455, Nakina, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.58 percent of the residents in 28455 has some form of health insurance. 40.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.64 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 28455 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 745 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28455. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,707 health care providers accessible to residents in 28455, Nakina, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Nakina, NC (ZIP Code 28455)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within and surrounding Nakina, North Carolina (ZIP code 28455), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care, specifically examining the availability and quality of primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, though a numerical score is not provided due to the qualitative nature of the data and the limitations of publicly available information. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey from screening to treatment and recovery.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is paramount, and this begins with regular screenings and patient education. The physician-to-patient ratio in a given area is a significant indicator of access. Unfortunately, publicly available data on physician distribution within a specific ZIP code is often limited. However, we can leverage broader county-level data and extrapolate to the Nakina area. Columbus County, where Nakina is located, often faces challenges related to physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. This suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable than in more urbanized regions. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have the necessary equipment and expertise to perform basic screenings, such as ordering chest X-rays or providing smoking cessation counseling? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a critical factor. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between different healthcare providers, which is particularly important in coordinating care for complex conditions like lung cancer. The adoption rate of EHRs and the interoperability of these systems within practices in and around Nakina needs to be carefully considered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers and provide patients with access to specialists and consultations without requiring them to travel long distances. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the Nakina area is a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. Practices that offer telehealth options can potentially improve access to lung cancer screenings, consultations with pulmonologists, and follow-up care. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in the Nakina area is also a determining factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. These professionals can provide support to patients dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. The availability of these resources, and their accessibility to patients in the Nakina area, is a critical component of the overall Lung Cancer Score assessment.

Standout practices in the area can be identified through various means. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and referrals from other healthcare providers can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by individual practices. Practices that actively engage in community outreach, such as offering free health screenings or educational programs, often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient well-being. Identifying these practices and understanding their operational model can provide a benchmark for other providers in the region.

The ability of the healthcare system to manage and coordinate care is also critical. This includes the seamless referral of patients to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, and the efficient sharing of medical records. The presence of a well-defined care pathway for lung cancer patients, from screening to diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, is a significant indicator of the quality of care. The integration of primary care practices with larger healthcare networks or hospitals can facilitate this coordination and improve patient outcomes.

Finally, the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is an important factor. These resources provide patients with a sense of community, emotional support, and access to valuable information about their disease. The presence of these resources in or near the Nakina area can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better outcomes.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for the Nakina area is heavily influenced by the challenges of rural healthcare, including potential physician shortages and limited access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine, the presence of robust mental health resources, and the coordination of care within the healthcare system are all critical factors. Further investigation is needed to determine the specifics of each of these components.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Nakina and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access and help identify potential gaps in care.