28478, Willard, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28478, Willard, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 28478 has some form of health insurance. 41.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.78 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 28478 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28478. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 241 health care providers accessible to residents in 28478, Willard, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Willard, NC (ZIP Code 28478)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Willard, North Carolina (ZIP code 28478), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals in this area. The analysis is based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

Willard, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors in a holistic approach.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical factors influencing lung cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection and consistent follow-up are vital for successful treatment. In a rural setting like Willard, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. The national average PCP-to-population ratio is around 1:1300. Willard, given its size and potential for limited healthcare infrastructure, might have a ratio that is less favorable. This means fewer doctors are available to serve the population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative screenings, including those relevant to lung cancer.

The availability of primary care also directly impacts the referral process. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. A well-staffed primary care system can facilitate timely referrals to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs can delay diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Infrastructure:**

Identifying "standout practices" in Willard requires assessing the quality of care delivered by existing healthcare providers. This involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of specialized services. Without specific practice-level data, a general assessment is possible.

The presence of a local hospital or clinic is crucial. Does Willard have a hospital or a clinic with primary care and potentially, specialists? These facilities are essential for providing diagnostic services, such as CT scans and biopsies, which are critical for lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of these services locally significantly reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for care, improving convenience and potentially reducing the emotional burden associated with a cancer diagnosis.

The presence of a dedicated oncology center or a partnership with a larger regional cancer center would significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score." Such centers offer comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The absence of these resources would necessitate travel to larger cities for treatment, adding to the logistical and financial challenges faced by patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It can bridge the gap in access to specialists and improve the efficiency of care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and providing access to expertise that might not be available locally.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the extent to which local healthcare providers utilize telemedicine. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to online educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care.

Does Willard have mental health professionals who are readily accessible to patients? Are there partnerships with local mental health organizations or support groups? The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families, helping them cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of the disease. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Assessment:**

Based on the available information and general healthcare trends, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Willard, NC (ZIP code 28478) is likely moderate, but with potential areas for improvement. The small size of the community and its rural setting likely present challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized services.

The score is influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of a local clinic or hospital, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Without specific data on these factors, a precise score is impossible. However, the assessment suggests that residents may face challenges in accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for lung cancer.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Willard, NC, is crucial for residents and healthcare providers alike. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis highlights the importance of addressing potential gaps in care and improving access to resources.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare infrastructure in Willard and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the availability of resources and the potential challenges faced by patients.