28523, Cove City, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28523, Cove City, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.13 percent of the residents in 28523 has some form of health insurance. 45.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.56 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 28523 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 603 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28523. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,051 health care providers accessible to residents in 28523, Cove City, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cove City, NC (ZIP Code 28523)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape of Cove City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28523), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local environment, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon early detection and consistent follow-up. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Therefore, the accessibility and quality of primary care in Cove City are paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Researching the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services should be consulted to determine the current PCP availability per 1,000 residents. This data will provide a baseline understanding of the healthcare access challenges in the area.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are the existing physicians concentrated in one area, potentially leaving residents in other parts of Cove City underserved? Examining the geographical distribution of practices and the patient demographics they serve provides a more complete picture. Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers in the area? These facilities often play a crucial role in providing care to underserved populations, including those at higher risk for lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices within Cove City is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, potentially offering advanced screening programs, patient education initiatives, and strong referral networks. Researching local practices, including their websites, patient reviews, and any accreditations or certifications they hold, can reveal valuable insights. Are any practices designated as patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs)? PCMHs emphasize coordinated, comprehensive care, which is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does Cove City have practices that offer telehealth consultations for primary care, follow-up appointments, or specialist consultations? The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially facilitate earlier interventions. Examining local practice websites and contacting the practices directly can determine the extent of telemedicine integration.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Does Cove City have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are these resources integrated into the primary care practices, or are patients required to seek care separately? The presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care is essential for supporting patients through their cancer journey.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services is important. Does Cove City have access to smoking cessation programs? Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and these programs can play a vital role in preventing the disease and improving patient outcomes. Are there any local resources for nutrition counseling, physical therapy, or palliative care? These services can help patients manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and navigate the complexities of cancer treatment.

Finally, assessing the local hospital system is crucial. Does Cove City have access to a hospital with a dedicated oncology department? Does the hospital offer advanced diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, which are essential for lung cancer detection and staging? Does the hospital have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists? The presence of a comprehensive oncology program is a major indicator of the local healthcare system's capacity to provide high-quality lung cancer care.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape of Cove City (28523) requires a multi-faceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of this analysis. A thorough investigation of these factors will provide a comprehensive understanding of the local environment, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocating for improvements where necessary. Access to timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and supportive care are vital for improving outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Cove City, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geospatial representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution.