28501, Kinston, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28501 has some form of health insurance. 59.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.47 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 28501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28501)**

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape in Kinston, North Carolina (ZIP code 28501), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing the needs of individuals affected by or at risk of lung cancer.

Kinston, a city in Lenoir County, faces unique challenges and opportunities within its healthcare system. Its rural setting, coupled with socioeconomic factors, influences access to care and the overall health outcomes of its residents. Understanding these dynamics is critical for developing effective strategies to improve lung cancer detection, treatment, and support.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care services. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, early detection screenings, and referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs, therefore, directly impacts the timeliness and quality of lung cancer care.

In Kinston (28501), physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of primary care accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the area often faces a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient loads for existing physicians. This scarcity can hinder early detection efforts, as patients may delay seeking care due to access barriers. It is essential to assess the specific ratio and its impact on patient outcomes.

The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics can partially mitigate the challenges of PCP shortages. These facilities often provide comprehensive primary care services to underserved populations, including those at higher risk for lung cancer. Evaluating the capacity and reach of these clinics is vital.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within Kinston is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices in lung cancer care, including early detection programs, adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines, and patient-centered care models.

Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening initiatives, deserve particular recognition. The implementation of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals is a critical component of early detection. Practices actively promoting and facilitating these screenings are making a significant impact.

Furthermore, practices that foster strong relationships with specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Streamlined referral processes and collaborative care models improve patient outcomes. Analyzing the referral networks and the efficiency of these collaborations is important.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Kinston. Telehealth consultations can facilitate remote access to specialists, provide follow-up care, and offer support services, such as smoking cessation counseling.

Assessing the adoption rate of telemedicine among healthcare providers in 28501 is essential. Factors to consider include the availability of necessary technology, patient access to reliable internet connectivity, and the willingness of both providers and patients to embrace telehealth. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models should be highlighted as examples for others to follow.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, in Kinston is essential. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers is also important. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, support groups, or referrals to mental health specialists are better equipped to address the emotional needs of patients.

**Specific Considerations for Kinston**

Kinston’s demographics and socioeconomic factors warrant specific consideration. The prevalence of smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer, may be higher in certain populations. Targeted interventions, such as culturally sensitive smoking cessation programs, are crucial.

Additionally, access to transportation can be a significant barrier to care for some residents. Strategies to address this challenge, such as providing transportation assistance or offering mobile screening services, can improve access to care.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in Kinston, NC (28501), presents both challenges and opportunities for lung cancer care. While the area may face limitations in primary care availability and physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can positively impact patient outcomes. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving the overall quality of care for individuals affected by or at risk of lung cancer.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kinston and visualize the distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, enabling a more informed assessment of access to care and resource allocation.