28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 28511 has some form of health insurance. 52.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.24 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 28511 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28511. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 59 health care providers accessible to residents in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28511 & Primary Care in Atlantic

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 28511, focusing on primary care availability in the broader Atlantic region. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to patients and highlight areas of strength and potential improvement. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment based on publicly available data and general industry trends.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests heavily on early detection and proactive primary care. In Atlantic, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within the region offers an initial glimpse into accessibility. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Public health data, such as that available from the US Department of Health & Human Services, is essential in determining this ratio. This data, alongside information from local healthcare networks, can provide a clearer picture of the existing primary care infrastructure.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the integration of evidence-based screening protocols for lung cancer, particularly for individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines recommend annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for specific high-risk populations. The degree to which local primary care practices actively implement these guidelines is a key indicator of quality.

Within ZIP Code 28511, identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices are likely to demonstrate excellence in several areas. They may have dedicated care coordinators who assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, scheduling appointments, and coordinating follow-up care. They might also have established relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists, facilitating seamless referrals and communication. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores, although not always fully representative, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide a glimpse into patient perceptions of various practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility, especially in areas where geographical barriers might exist. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in the Atlantic region can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and potentially improve health outcomes.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and therapy, within primary care practices or through referrals is a vital component of patient well-being. Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient quality of life and treatment adherence.

The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance is also a significant factor. While primary care provides the foundation, access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists, is essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment. The proximity of these specialists, along with the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, significantly impacts patient outcomes.

To assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 28511 and primary care in Atlantic, a multi-faceted approach is needed. This involves analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the implementation of lung cancer screening guidelines, identifying standout primary care practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources and specialized treatment centers. The integration of these factors provides a more comprehensive picture of the resources available to patients and the overall quality of care.

The assessment of primary care practices should also include their adherence to best practices in patient education. This includes providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Practices that proactively educate their patients empower them to make informed decisions about their health.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of community resources and support groups. Organizations like the American Lung Association and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation offer valuable resources, including support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance. The accessibility of these resources within the Atlantic region can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging. Regular updates to this assessment are necessary to ensure that the information remains current and relevant.

Finally, the analysis should consider the socio-economic factors that can impact access to care. Factors such as income, insurance coverage, and transportation access can all influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer care for all residents of ZIP Code 28511 and the broader Atlantic region.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Atlantic, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and treatment centers, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of the data discussed, allowing you to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access. Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.