28537, Hobucken, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28537, Hobucken, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28537 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28537 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28537. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 99 health care providers accessible to residents in 28537, Hobucken, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hobucken, NC (ZIP Code 28537)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Hobucken, North Carolina (ZIP code 28537) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. We must examine not only the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), who are often the first point of contact for patients, but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including specialist access, mental health support, and the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure as it relates to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon a strong primary care base. In Hobucken, assessing primary care availability is crucial. This involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans, which are vital for early detection. Investigating the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and the surrounding areas accessible to Hobucken residents, is the initial step. Are there enough PCPs to adequately serve the population? Are there any significant gaps in coverage, potentially leaving certain segments of the community underserved?

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Factors to consider include the types of services offered, the availability of same-day appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that prioritize patient education and proactive screening protocols are particularly valuable. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to easily share patient information between providers are also critical for seamless care coordination, especially when managing complex conditions like lung cancer. We need to ascertain how the PCPs in the area integrate these technologies.

The availability of specialists is another key component. Lung cancer care often necessitates the involvement of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Hobucken is crucial. Travel distance and wait times for appointments can significantly impact patient outcomes. Are there specialized cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance? Do the local hospitals and clinics have the necessary equipment and expertise to diagnose and treat lung cancer effectively? The availability of these specialists is a major factor in our "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the care model is essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system is critical. Does the primary care practice offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Are there support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness? The integration of mental health support significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local providers can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote consultations with specialists. Does the primary care practice offer telehealth appointments? Are specialists in the region utilizing telemedicine to provide consultations and follow-up care? The extent of telemedicine adoption is an important factor in our evaluation.

Identifying standout practices within the Hobucken area is also important. Are there any primary care practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer screening and management? Do they have a strong track record of early detection and successful treatment outcomes? Do they actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer prevention and early detection? Highlighting these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite metric that considers all these factors. It's not just about the number of doctors, but also about the quality of care, the accessibility of specialists, the integration of mental health services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of support resources. The score would reflect the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in supporting patients through the lung cancer journey.

The score would also consider the community's awareness and engagement with lung cancer prevention. Are there public health campaigns promoting smoking cessation and early detection? Are there resources available to help individuals quit smoking? The level of community involvement in promoting lung health is an important indicator of the overall healthcare environment.

Evaluating the local healthcare system also involves considering the availability of resources for financial assistance. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may face significant financial burdens. Are there programs available to help patients cover the cost of treatment, medications, and other related expenses? The availability of financial assistance is crucial for ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Hobucken, NC (ZIP code 28537) requires a comprehensive evaluation of the local healthcare infrastructure. This involves examining the availability of primary care physicians, the accessibility of specialists, the integration of mental health services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of support resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system as it relates to lung cancer care, ultimately empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hobucken and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.