28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.37 percent of the residents in 28456 has some form of health insurance. 47.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.46 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 28456 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 612 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28456. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 698 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 940 health care providers accessible to residents in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Riegelwood, NC (ZIP Code 28456)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Riegelwood, North Carolina (ZIP code 28456) requires a nuanced approach, particularly when considering the complexities of lung cancer care. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical foundation for early detection and effective treatment of this devastating disease. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific geographic area.

The very nature of rural healthcare presents challenges. Riegelwood, with its relatively small population, likely faces a shortage of medical professionals. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a common indicator of limited access to care. This means that the existing primary care physicians are potentially responsible for a larger patient pool, which can impact appointment availability and the time they can dedicate to individual patients. This scarcity of resources could lead to delayed diagnoses, a critical factor in lung cancer outcomes. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, and a lack of readily available primary care can hinder this crucial step.

Within the confines of Riegelwood, identifying "standout practices" is essential. These practices, if they exist, would be those that are demonstrating a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening and patient education. This could involve actively promoting low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers, and implementing robust patient education programs about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with lung cancer. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, would also be a significant positive indicator. These practices would ideally have integrated systems for timely referrals to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score." The ability to access virtual consultations with specialists can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients in Riegelwood to connect with experts who might not be readily available locally. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of lung cancer. This technology can also be used to provide remote monitoring of patients, allowing healthcare providers to track their progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. The more widespread the adoption of telemedicine, the higher the score.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a robust healthcare system. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. These resources can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it allows for early identification and intervention for patients struggling with these issues. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility to patients in Riegelwood, directly influences the "Lung Cancer Score."

Evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" in Riegelwood, NC, requires a comprehensive approach. It is not simply about the number of doctors or the availability of hospitals. It is about the entire ecosystem of care, from the initial screening to the ongoing support for patients and their families. The factors discussed – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – are all interconnected and contribute to the overall quality of care.

The challenge in rural areas like Riegelwood is often the limited availability of specialized care. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The presence of mobile screening units, which travel to underserved areas to provide LDCT scans, could significantly improve early detection rates. Collaboration between primary care practices and larger healthcare systems in nearby cities can also improve access to specialized care through referral networks and shared resources.

The quality of lung cancer care is also determined by the implementation of evidence-based practices. This includes the use of standardized protocols for diagnosis and treatment, as well as the participation in clinical trials to advance research and improve patient outcomes. The adoption of these practices requires ongoing training and education for healthcare providers.

Another important consideration is the socioeconomic status of the population in Riegelwood. Low-income individuals and those with limited access to transportation may face additional barriers to accessing healthcare. This necessitates a focus on culturally sensitive care and the provision of resources to address these challenges. This might include assistance with transportation, financial support for treatment, and access to interpreters.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking improvements in physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of mental health services. The goal is to continuously improve the quality of care for patients with lung cancer in Riegelwood and the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" in Riegelwood, NC, reveals both challenges and opportunities. While the rural setting presents limitations, the dedication of local healthcare providers and the potential for technological advancements offer hope for improved outcomes. A focus on early detection, comprehensive care, and patient support is crucial.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Riegelwood and visualize the availability of resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and help you identify areas where resources are most needed.