28508, Albertson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.84 percent of the residents in 28508 has some form of health insurance. 45.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.08 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 28508 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 528 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28508. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28508 & Primary Care in Albertson

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP Code 28508, with a specific focus on the availability and quality of care relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. The scope expands to include the broader context of primary care access in Albertson, NC, and its implications for the community. This analysis utilizes publicly available data, including physician directories, hospital websites, and health resource databases. It is not intended to provide medical advice.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is a composite measure reflecting the likelihood of a patient in the area receiving timely and effective care related to lung cancer. It considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of preventive services (e.g., smoking cessation programs, lung cancer screenings), the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources to support patients throughout their journey.

ZIP Code 28508, encompassing the town of Jacksonville, NC, presents a unique challenge due to its population density and the presence of a large military base, Camp Lejeune. This demographic mix influences healthcare needs and access. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise ratios are constantly fluctuating, publicly available data suggests that, in general, Onslow County, where Jacksonville is located, may experience some challenges in primary care access compared to more affluent areas. This is partially offset by the presence of military healthcare facilities, which serve a significant portion of the population.

The availability of primary care in Albertson, a smaller community nearby, is also a crucial element. Albertson residents rely on primary care physicians for routine check-ups, preventative care, and referrals to specialists. The relative scarcity of primary care physicians in Albertson, or the need to travel to Jacksonville or other surrounding towns, can pose barriers to timely access to care. This is particularly concerning for individuals at higher risk for lung cancer, such as smokers or those with a family history of the disease.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 28508 are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection. This includes practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer lung cancer screenings according to current guidelines (e.g., low-dose CT scans for eligible individuals), and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that prioritize patient education and communication, ensuring patients understand their risk factors and the importance of early detection, are also highly regarded. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators or care coordinators can significantly improve patient outcomes by guiding them through the complex healthcare system.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas and for patients with mobility limitations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can enhance access to care and improve patient convenience. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer. The integration of telemedicine also reduces the need for travel, which can be a significant burden for patients living in Albertson or other surrounding communities.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support their patients. Access to mental health support can improve patient coping mechanisms, adherence to treatment plans, and overall quality of life. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a valuable resource for patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 28508 is impacted by the interplay of these factors. The score is not a single number but rather a reflection of the overall healthcare environment and the ability of patients to access the services they need. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed.

The challenges in Albertson and the broader region highlight the need for strategic initiatives to improve primary care access. This includes recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing the availability of mental health resources. Community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, the importance of screening, and the availability of support services are also crucial. Collaborations between primary care practices, hospitals, and community organizations can enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score assessment for ZIP Code 28508 and the surrounding area underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to healthcare. Addressing physician-to-patient ratios, promoting preventive care, integrating telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health resources are all essential components of a comprehensive strategy.

For a visual representation of healthcare access, physician density, and other relevant data points within ZIP Code 28508 and the surrounding area, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed geographic overview of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas of need and assess the overall healthcare landscape in the region.