28519, Bridgeton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28519, Bridgeton, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.19 percent of the residents in 28519 has some form of health insurance. 42.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.16 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 28519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28519. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,513 health care providers accessible to residents in 28519, Bridgeton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Bridgeton, NC (ZIP Code 28519)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources in Bridgeton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28519), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We will examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately assigning a 'Lung Cancer Score' based on the observed strengths and weaknesses. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape and its capacity to support individuals facing this serious disease.

Bridgeton, a small community nestled along the Neuse River, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Rural settings often face hurdles in providing specialized medical services, and this analysis will highlight these considerations.

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

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Early detection and appropriate referrals are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Bridgeton is therefore paramount. This involves evaluating the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing this figure to the local population. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate limited access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, along with information from local hospitals and clinics, will be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. We will also consider the types of PCPs available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric specialists. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a vital role in primary care delivery, will also be factored into the assessment.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code. Are practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of Bridgeton? The availability of transportation options, such as public transit or ride-sharing services, will also be considered, as these factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to reach their PCP.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in primary care and cancer screening is essential. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the implementation of evidence-based practices.

This analysis will look for practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhering to guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This includes assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are crucial for early detection. We will also investigate the presence of patient navigation programs, which can help guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The analysis will also assess the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance of Bridgeton. The proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in New Bern, will be a key factor. The ability to access specialized expertise is critical for patients diagnosed with lung cancer.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Access:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices will be evaluated, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals.

The benefits of telemedicine in lung cancer care are numerous. It can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients' conditions. The analysis will consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

The availability of reliable internet access in Bridgeton will also be considered, as this is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine use.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care.

This analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, in Bridgeton and the surrounding areas. We will assess the availability of counseling services, support groups, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of cancer.

The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan will also be examined. Does the primary care practice screen patients for mental health concerns? Are referrals to mental health professionals readily available? Addressing the mental health needs of patients is essential for improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

**Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the assessment of these factors, a 'Lung Cancer Score' will be assigned to the healthcare resources in Bridgeton, NC (ZIP Code 28519). This score will reflect the overall strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in supporting individuals facing lung cancer. The score will be categorized as: Excellent, Good, Fair, or Poor.

The final score will be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, and the adoption of telemedicine will be given significant weight, as these factors directly impact access to care. The availability of mental health resources and the presence of standout practices will also be considered.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Bridgeton. It is important to note that healthcare is a dynamic system, and conditions can change over time.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Bridgeton and the surrounding areas, including the geographical distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data and gaining valuable insights into the accessibility of care.