28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28512 has some form of health insurance. 50.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.58 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 28512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28512. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,409 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Atlantic Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28512)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 28512, encompassing Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. The score considers factors crucial to early lung cancer detection and patient care, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview for residents seeking optimal care in the area.

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

A fundamental aspect of lung cancer screening and treatment is the accessibility of primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Atlantic Beach, and by extension, ZIP code 28512, is a critical indicator of access. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau are essential for determining this ratio. A low ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access.

The availability of primary care is also influenced by factors beyond the raw physician count. These include the operating hours of practices, whether they accept new patients, and the types of insurance they accept. Practices with extended hours, weekend availability, and a broad insurance network contribute to a higher availability score. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in facilities within the ZIP code can also supplement primary care access, especially for acute respiratory issues that might be early indicators of lung problems. The LCS considers these factors when evaluating the overall accessibility of care.

**Standout Practices and Quality Indicators:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several quality indicators. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that proactively offer low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to eligible patients, based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors, receive higher scores.

Another critical factor is the practice’s commitment to patient education and shared decision-making. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about lung cancer risk factors, screening options, and the benefits and risks of LDCT scans demonstrate a commitment to informed patient care. Patient satisfaction surveys, publicly available reviews, and the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives are also considered. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction and a commitment to continuous improvement earn higher marks in the LCS.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The LCS assesses the extent to which practices in ZIP code 28512 have adopted telemedicine. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals receive higher scores. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations.

The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients. Virtual consultations can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes. Telemedicine also allows for easier communication between patients and their care teams, facilitating the prompt reporting of symptoms and the timely adjustment of treatment plans. The LCS acknowledges the importance of telemedicine in enhancing access and improving patient outcomes.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. The LCS evaluates the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices themselves or through referrals to external providers. Practices that have integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals, receive higher scores.

The ability to address the psychological aspects of lung cancer can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, enhance their quality of life, and ultimately improve their overall outcomes. The LCS considers the availability of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care as essential components of a well-rounded healthcare system. The ability of practices to screen for depression and anxiety, and to provide appropriate referrals, is also a key factor in the LCS assessment.

**Specific Considerations for Atlantic Beach:**

The unique characteristics of Atlantic Beach, a coastal community, are also considered. The seasonal influx of tourists and the potential for a higher elderly population may influence the demand for healthcare services. Practices that are prepared to handle a fluctuating patient load and that have experience in caring for a diverse patient population receive higher scores. The LCS accounts for these factors when assessing the overall quality of care in the area.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for primary care in Atlantic Beach (ZIP code 28512) is a dynamic assessment that considers various factors influencing early detection, treatment, and overall patient care. The analysis emphasizes the importance of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. Residents seeking primary care should consider these factors when choosing a physician.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Atlantic Beach, including the location of practices, access to resources, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-rich platform for visualizing healthcare information, helping residents make informed decisions about their care.