28532, Havelock, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28532, Havelock, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.81 percent of the residents in 28532 has some form of health insurance. 30.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.34 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 28532 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,622 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28532. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,852 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,910 health care providers accessible to residents in 28532, Havelock, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Havelock, NC (ZIP Code 28532) - An Analysis

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within Havelock, North Carolina (ZIP code 28532), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management of this disease. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all contributing to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

Havelock, a city in Craven County, is home to a significant population, including a large military presence due to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. This demographic profile, with its potential for higher smoking rates and exposure to environmental factors, underscores the importance of accessible and effective lung cancer screening and treatment. The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of this effort.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of access to care. In 28532, the ratio likely fluctuates, influenced by factors such as the influx of military personnel and their families, as well as the general population's health needs. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on physician-to-patient ratios can be difficult to obtain, a general understanding of the area's healthcare infrastructure is possible. Areas with lower ratios, indicating fewer physicians per capita, often experience longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to specialized care. This is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score, as delayed diagnosis and treatment significantly impact patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, including lung cancer screening programs. They may employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. These practices often have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists, ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complex healthcare system, also elevates a practice's standing. Further investigation into specific practices within the 28532 ZIP code would reveal those demonstrating exceptional dedication to lung cancer screening and treatment protocols.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists. It can also be used for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The Lung Cancer Score benefits from practices that embrace telemedicine, as it increases access to specialists and allows for more frequent check-ins.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for patients' overall well-being and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of treatment. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models receive higher marks in the Lung Cancer Score.

Primary care availability in Havelock is a critical factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score. The presence of a robust primary care network, with sufficient physician staffing and accessible appointment scheduling, is essential for early detection and intervention. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate lung cancer. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists is paramount.

The Lung Cancer Score for 28532 is influenced by the integration of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with advanced screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall assessment. A higher score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive care, and patient support.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Havelock, NC, requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure. While a definitive numerical score is impossible without detailed data, the analysis highlights the importance of accessible primary care, proactive screening programs, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support in providing quality lung cancer care. The availability of these resources significantly impacts patient outcomes and the overall health of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Havelock, NC, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital proximity, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and the overall Lung Cancer Score for the area.