28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 28480 has some form of health insurance. 22.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.14 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 28480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28480. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28480, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wrightsville Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28480)

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, a coastal community known for its pristine beaches and relaxed lifestyle, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support within the 28480 ZIP code. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the resources available to residents and highlighting areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio becomes a critical metric. While specific, publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios *within* the 28480 ZIP code is often limited, analysis must rely on broader county-level data (New Hanover County) and extrapolated estimates. A healthy ratio generally indicates sufficient access to care, enabling PCPs to dedicate adequate time to each patient. A high ratio, conversely, can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the diagnostic capabilities of the practices. Do the practices have the equipment for initial screenings? Do they have access to the latest diagnostic tools? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? These are all crucial considerations. Practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, through proactive screening programs for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history), are likely to receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the Wrightsville Beach area, or those serving the 28480 ZIP code, should be identified. This involves researching individual practices, evaluating their websites, and, if possible, analyzing patient reviews. The focus should be on practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive preventative care, and demonstrate a clear understanding of lung cancer risk factors. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs related to smoking cessation and lung health awareness would also be favorably considered.

The adoption of telemedicine is another important factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely, can significantly enhance access to care, especially for those living in geographically isolated areas or with mobility limitations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. This is especially relevant for lung cancer patients who may experience fatigue or other side effects that make travel difficult.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, is crucial. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer support services, such as counseling or support groups, will be highly valued.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) and oncologists (cancer specialists) is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to the 28480 ZIP code, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them, are important factors. Practices with strong relationships with these specialists, facilitating prompt and seamless referrals, will receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Wrightsville Beach needs consideration. This includes the presence of hospitals, imaging centers, and radiation oncology facilities. Proximity to a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full range of treatment options, is a significant advantage. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is also a positive indicator.

Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach involves a multifaceted approach. It goes beyond simply counting doctors or evaluating the number of specialists. It requires a detailed examination of the quality of care, the availability of resources, and the commitment of healthcare providers to patient well-being. The ideal score would reflect a community where primary care physicians are readily accessible, practices are proactive in early detection, telemedicine is widely adopted, mental health support is readily available, and patients have seamless access to specialists and comprehensive cancer care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Wrightsville Beach (28480) is a dynamic assessment that reflects the ever-changing healthcare landscape. It is essential to continually monitor and evaluate the availability and quality of care to ensure that residents have access to the best possible resources for lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the current state of healthcare in the area.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wrightsville Beach, including physician locations, specialist availability, and facility locations, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a dynamic and detailed view of the healthcare resources in your area, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.