28538, Hookerton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.73 percent of the residents in 28538 has some form of health insurance. 37.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.95 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 28538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 551 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 336 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hookerton, NC (ZIP Code 28538)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28538, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a critical factor in early detection and effective treatment. The assessment incorporates elements relevant to a "Lung Cancer Score," including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents and healthcare stakeholders.

Hookerton, North Carolina, a small town, presents a unique challenge. The limited population base often translates to fewer healthcare providers and potentially longer travel distances for specialized care. This geographic reality significantly influences the accessibility of quality lung cancer screening and treatment. The success of lung cancer care hinges on early detection, which is heavily reliant on the vigilance of primary care physicians (PCPs).

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hookerton and the surrounding areas is a crucial indicator of access to care. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This analysis will attempt to estimate the physician-to-patient ratio, focusing on PCPs, as they are the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau will be utilized to approximate this ratio.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. While Hookerton may not have these specialists directly within its borders, the proximity of larger medical centers in nearby cities like Greenville and Kinston is crucial. The ease of access to these specialists, measured by travel time and transportation options, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. A lack of readily available specialists can negatively affect the score, as it can delay diagnosis and treatment.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices within the Hookerton area is essential. These practices are characterized by a commitment to providing high-quality care, adhering to established guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and employing evidence-based practices. This analysis will attempt to identify practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection.

Factors considered in identifying standout practices include: the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, the implementation of patient education programs on lung cancer risk factors and screening guidelines, and the availability of smoking cessation programs. Practices that actively participate in community outreach and education initiatives will also be viewed favorably.

The analysis will consider the patient experience. This includes assessing patient satisfaction scores, the availability of multilingual services, and the overall responsiveness of the practice to patient needs. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care are more likely to achieve better outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Hookerton. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.

This analysis will assess the level of telemedicine adoption within the area. This includes identifying practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care will be a key factor. The ease of access to telemedicine platforms, including technical support and user-friendly interfaces, will also be considered.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. This analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the Hookerton area.

This includes identifying mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who are available to provide support to patients and their families. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources will be considered. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan will be a key factor in assessing the Lung Cancer Score.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

The Lung Cancer Score for Hookerton, NC (ZIP Code 28538) will be determined by a holistic assessment of the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the overall availability, accessibility, and quality of lung cancer care within the area. The analysis will highlight areas of strength and weakness, providing insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents.

The final score will be a composite metric, incorporating the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a valuable tool for understanding the state of lung cancer care in Hookerton.

The findings of this analysis will be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for increased resources and support for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. It is important to note that this analysis is based on available data and may not capture all aspects of the healthcare landscape.

**Visualize the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hookerton, NC, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, access to specialists, and other relevant information. CartoChrome maps can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and advocate for improvements in your community.