28470, Shallotte, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28470, Shallotte, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 28470 has some form of health insurance. 50.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.26 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 28470 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,564 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28470. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,474 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,625 health care providers accessible to residents in 28470, Shallotte, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28470, focusing on physician availability, quality of primary care, and the integration of supportive services. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients in Shallotte, North Carolina, and surrounding areas.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Shallotte, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and a less personalized approach to care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more comprehensive preventative care, including early lung cancer screening. Data on this specific ratio within 28470 needs to be examined.

Standout primary care practices in the area are crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence through several factors. They might have a strong track record of early cancer detection, adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, and a focus on patient education. These practices may also excel in care coordination, ensuring seamless transitions between primary care, pulmonology, oncology, and other specialists. Identifying these exemplary practices involves examining patient reviews, physician credentials, and the availability of specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services for primary care and pulmonology consultations in 28470 is important. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, enabling early intervention and improved management of chronic conditions. The extent of telemedicine integration within local practices needs to be assessed.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore vital. Examining the availability of these resources within 28470 involves investigating the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of specialized support groups for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices.

The presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is another important factor. The availability of pulmonologists in the immediate area of 28470 is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. This involves assessing the number of pulmonologists practicing in the area, their subspecialties (e.g., interventional pulmonology), and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices is also important, as it facilitates efficient referrals and collaborative care.

The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scans, is critical for lung cancer screening and diagnosis. The presence of these services within 28470, or in nearby areas, is essential for timely detection and treatment. This includes assessing the availability of high-quality imaging equipment, the expertise of radiologists, and the turnaround time for results. The integration of these imaging services with primary care and pulmonology practices is also important, as it streamlines the diagnostic process.

The presence of oncology services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology, is another essential factor. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance from 28470 is critical for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. This involves assessing the presence of oncologists, the availability of chemotherapy and radiation therapy facilities, and the proximity to cancer centers. The collaboration between oncologists and other specialists, such as pulmonologists and surgeons, is also important for coordinated care.

The adoption of advanced treatment modalities, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, is a sign of a progressive and up-to-date cancer care program. Assessing the availability of these treatments within 28470 involves examining the types of therapies offered by local oncologists, the availability of clinical trials, and the expertise of the medical team in administering these treatments. Access to these advanced therapies can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The level of patient education and support services offered by local healthcare providers is another important factor. This includes the availability of educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system. Assessing the availability of these services involves examining the resources offered by primary care practices, pulmonology offices, and cancer centers. A well-informed and supported patient is more likely to adhere to treatment plans and experience better outcomes.

The overall quality of care is influenced by several factors, including the experience and expertise of healthcare providers, the availability of advanced technologies, and the integration of supportive services. Assessing the overall quality of care within 28470 involves examining patient outcomes, such as survival rates, and the patient experience. This also includes assessing the level of collaboration between healthcare providers, the efficiency of the healthcare system, and the patient's ability to access the care they need.

The healthcare landscape within 28470 is a dynamic entity. Regular assessment is necessary to stay informed.
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Shallotte and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, pulmonologists, oncologists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.