28527, Ernul, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28527, Ernul, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.84 percent of the residents in 28527 has some form of health insurance. 46.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.44 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 28527 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 180 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28527. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 382 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 28527, Ernul, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in 28527 and Primary Care in Ernul

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28527 (likely encompassing the Ernul area) and assesses the availability of primary care resources, crucial for early detection and management of this disease. We'll evaluate the healthcare ecosystem based on several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in a patient's journey with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Ernul, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in maintaining a robust primary care infrastructure. A scarcity of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for screenings or to address concerning symptoms. This directly impacts the stage at which lung cancer is detected, influencing treatment options and overall survival rates.

Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios is paramount. Ideally, a low patient-to-physician ratio ensures that each patient receives adequate attention and that physicians have the capacity to dedicate sufficient time to preventative care, including lung cancer screening recommendations for high-risk individuals. A higher ratio, conversely, can strain the system, potentially leading to shorter appointment times, reduced focus on patient education, and a diminished ability to proactively address potential health concerns. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services would be essential for obtaining accurate figures on this specific area.

Within the 28527 ZIP code, the presence of standout primary care practices is a significant indicator of healthcare quality. These practices often distinguish themselves through several factors. They might have a dedicated focus on preventative medicine, including robust lung cancer screening programs that adhere to current guidelines. They might also boast a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care with specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in patient education, providing resources and support for smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices, are invaluable in the fight against lung cancer. Identifying these standout practices requires research into local healthcare providers, reviewing patient testimonials, and examining publicly available performance metrics if any exist.

The adoption of telemedicine within the healthcare landscape is another critical aspect of the analysis. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, particularly for patients in rural areas like Ernul. It can improve access to care by reducing travel time and costs, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments for patients undergoing treatment, allowing for more frequent monitoring and support. The availability of telemedicine services, specifically for lung cancer-related consultations, would be a significant advantage, especially for those with mobility issues or limited access to transportation. Researching local practices and hospitals to determine their telemedicine capabilities is essential.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked, yet they are integral to the well-being of lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Ernul area is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This could involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health providers, or referrals to support groups. The presence of these resources significantly impacts the patient's ability to cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease.

Specific practices within 28527 that prioritize these elements should be highlighted. For example, a practice that actively promotes lung cancer screening, offers telemedicine consultations, and provides access to mental health services would be considered a strong performer. Identifying these practices requires a thorough investigation of local healthcare providers, including their websites, patient reviews, and public health data. The goal is to determine which practices are truly committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Furthermore, it's crucial to assess the availability of specialists in the area. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists all contribute to the overall quality of lung cancer care. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or partnerships with larger medical centers in nearby cities would be beneficial.

The analysis should also address the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. These services can include support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, offering emotional support and practical advice. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance issues, and treatment options. Financial assistance programs can help alleviate the financial burden associated with cancer treatment. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to providing comprehensive care that extends beyond medical treatment.

Overall, the "Lung Cancer Score" for the 28527 ZIP code and the primary care availability in Ernul is dependent on a multifaceted assessment. It requires evaluating the physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and determining the availability of mental health and support services. The final score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, providing a valuable insight into the quality of lung cancer care available to residents.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28527, including the location of practices, specialists, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive visualization of the data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of healthcare resources and areas that may be underserved. This visual representation can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.