28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.32 percent of the residents in 28528 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.96 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 28528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,144 health care providers accessible to residents in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare in Gloucester, NC (ZIP Code 28528)

This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on the healthcare landscape in Gloucester, North Carolina (ZIP code 28528), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. We will examine the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, evaluating the overall healthcare ecosystem's capacity to effectively address this significant health concern within the Gloucester community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through screening programs, risk assessments, and patient education are primarily the domain of primary care physicians. In Gloucester, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative services, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for individuals potentially facing lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a greater likelihood of timely care and proactive health management. Determining this ratio requires examining the total number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28528 ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to establish this critical baseline.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are also vital. Factors such as appointment wait times, the acceptance of various insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid), and the availability of evening or weekend appointments significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive health screenings, and proactively manage chronic conditions, such as smoking cessation programs, are considered more favorable. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a multi-faceted approach, including reviewing online patient reviews, assessing the practice's website for information on services offered, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in evaluating the healthcare landscape. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, can dramatically improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas like Gloucester. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. This is especially important for individuals who may have difficulty traveling to appointments due to physical limitations, transportation challenges, or geographic isolation. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals, receive a higher "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and its treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the local healthcare system is vital. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, have established referral networks with mental health providers, or integrate mental health screenings into routine care are considered more supportive of patients facing the challenges of lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gloucester, NC (ZIP code 28528) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can change over time as healthcare services evolve. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of "standout practices," the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with good access to care, proactive preventative measures, and comprehensive support services. A low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed to better serve individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

Assessing the specific practices within the 28528 ZIP code requires diligent research. Identifying the names of primary care practices, their staffing levels, the range of services offered, and their telemedicine capabilities is essential. Evaluating the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who are crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, is also critical. Furthermore, understanding the local hospital's capabilities, including its diagnostic imaging services (e.g., CT scans), surgical facilities, and radiation therapy options, is a vital component of the overall assessment.

The presence of community health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs, lung cancer screening campaigns, and patient support groups, also contributes to the "Lung Cancer Score." These initiatives demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and management. The involvement of local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Lung Association, in these efforts further strengthens the community's commitment to addressing this health concern.

The analysis also considers the role of local government and public health agencies in promoting lung cancer awareness and prevention. Initiatives such as public service announcements, educational materials, and community outreach programs can significantly impact the community's understanding of lung cancer risks and the importance of early detection. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies is essential for creating a supportive and informed environment for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Gloucester, NC (ZIP code 28528) would be a qualitative assessment, informed by quantitative data and qualitative observations. It would reflect the overall capacity of the healthcare system to effectively address the needs of individuals facing lung cancer. This analysis would provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gloucester, NC (ZIP code 28528), including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and community resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping platform allows you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in your community.