28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 28469 has some form of health insurance. 53.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.13 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 28469 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28469. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,268 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,228 health care providers accessible to residents in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on lung cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 28469, encompassing Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. This assessment will examine the availability of physicians, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately providing an understanding of the healthcare landscape for residents.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ocean Isle Beach (28469)**

Evaluating the quality of lung cancer care in a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. While direct, granular data on every aspect is often proprietary, we can infer trends and identify potential strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available information and general healthcare industry benchmarks. The goal is to provide an informed perspective, not a definitive ranking.

The first crucial factor is physician availability. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Ocean Isle Beach is paramount. While specific numbers require direct access to local medical databases, we can make some educated assumptions. Ocean Isle Beach is a relatively small coastal community. Therefore, the overall physician density is likely lower compared to larger metropolitan areas. The presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. They serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms and are vital for early detection and referral. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can indicate potential delays in diagnosis, a critical factor in lung cancer survival rates.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is equally important. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Wilmington or Myrtle Beach for specialized care. This travel time can add to the stress and inconvenience of treatment, impacting patient outcomes. Therefore, assessing the proximity to specialized care is a key element in evaluating the overall quality of lung cancer care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. These practices often prioritize early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. They may also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Furthermore, a strong emphasis on patient education and support is crucial. This includes providing resources on smoking cessation, managing side effects, and navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing for timely interventions and improved management of chronic conditions. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance patient care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

**Primary Care Availability in Ocean Isle Beach**

The availability of primary care is the foundation of a robust healthcare system. It is the first line of defense against disease and the gateway to specialized care when needed. In Ocean Isle Beach, the accessibility of primary care physicians directly impacts the community's overall health.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This can, in turn, contribute to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. The ideal ratio varies, but the goal is to ensure that patients can easily access a PCP when needed.

The types of primary care practices available are also important. Are there solo practices, group practices, or larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a wider range of services and may have extended hours, improving convenience for patients. The presence of urgent care clinics can also supplement primary care, providing immediate care for acute illnesses and injuries.

The availability of after-hours care is another critical factor. Patients need access to medical advice and treatment outside of regular business hours. This can include phone consultations, virtual visits, or access to after-hours clinics. Practices that offer after-hours care demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The integration of technology is becoming increasingly important in primary care. Electronic health records (EHRs) streamline patient care, improve communication, and facilitate data sharing. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians online. Practices that embrace technology are better equipped to provide efficient and patient-centered care.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Ocean Isle Beach (28469) requires a comprehensive understanding of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more in-depth assessment would require access to local medical databases and practice-specific information. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists, the integration of technology, and the provision of mental health support are all crucial factors in determining the quality of care.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Ocean Isle Beach, including mapping physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.