28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 28465 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 28465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Oak Island, NC (ZIP Code 28465)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of lung cancer care access and related resources for residents of Oak Island, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28465). The evaluation considers factors crucial to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care services. Early detection, often facilitated by regular check-ups and screening recommendations, significantly improves survival rates. In Oak Island, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 28465 ZIP code is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for calculating this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests more readily accessible primary care, a vital component of a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and management.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are equally important. Factors such as appointment scheduling efficiency, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of after-hours care contribute to the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer smoking cessation programs, and proactively discuss lung cancer screening guidelines (particularly for individuals at high risk, such as current or former smokers) demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. The presence of practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing with specialists is another indicator of a well-coordinated healthcare system.

The landscape of specialized care, particularly pulmonology and oncology, is another key element. While Oak Island may not have its own dedicated pulmonologists or oncologists, the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby Wilmington, NC, is a significant consideration. The ease of access to these specialists, whether through direct referrals from primary care physicians or through self-referral, influences the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the travel time to these specialized centers, the availability of transportation options for patients, and the presence of support services for patients undergoing treatment (such as support groups and financial assistance programs) are crucial for a holistic evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in the context of rural or geographically isolated areas. The use of telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing far from specialist offices. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists serving the Oak Island community is crucial. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide comprehensive and convenient care.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Oak Island area is essential. Examining the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists screen patients for mental health concerns and refer them to appropriate services is equally important. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and educational resources tailored to lung cancer patients and their families contributes to a supportive and compassionate healthcare environment.

Standout practices within the Oak Island area are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive prevention, and the integration of technology. These practices may excel in several areas, including:

* **Proactive Screening:** Actively promoting lung cancer screening for eligible patients, based on established guidelines.
* **Patient Education:** Providing comprehensive information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
* **Care Coordination:** Facilitating seamless communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers.
* **Telemedicine Integration:** Utilizing telemedicine to improve access to care and provide convenient follow-up appointments.
* **Mental Health Support:** Recognizing the importance of mental health and providing access to counseling and support services.

The evaluation of these factors provides a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in Oak Island. This assessment, however, is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The information provided here, therefore, is intended as a starting point for further investigation and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.

For a more detailed and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Oak Island, including the location of primary care practices, specialist offices, and mental health services, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to easily identify and compare healthcare providers in the area.