28539, Hubert, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28539, Hubert, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.88 percent of the residents in 28539 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.23 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 28539 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,914 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28539. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,923 health care providers accessible to residents in 28539, Hubert, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the quality of lung cancer care available to residents of Hubert, North Carolina, specifically focusing on primary care physicians within ZIP code 28539. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive and effective lung cancer care. While not a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" in a numerical format, this analysis provides a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced individual attention, and challenges in early detection and management of conditions like lung cancer. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 28539 requires access to specific, real-time datasets often proprietary to healthcare analytics firms. However, publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer general insights into primary care access within Onslow County, where Hubert is located. These resources can reveal if the county is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care, which would suggest a scarcity of physicians relative to the population. This scarcity could negatively impact the timeliness and accessibility of lung cancer screening and treatment initiation.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating those that demonstrate excellence in several areas. This includes practices with a proven track record in early lung cancer detection through screening programs, adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Factors such as the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., low-dose CT scans), the presence of multidisciplinary teams (including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists), and patient satisfaction scores are critical indicators. Researching local healthcare providers, including reviewing online patient testimonials, and consulting with healthcare professionals familiar with the area can help identify such practices. Furthermore, accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) can signify a commitment to high-quality cancer care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Hubert. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians in 28539 can significantly impact lung cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. This is especially important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments due to physical limitations, transportation challenges, or geographic isolation. Investigating which practices offer telehealth services, the types of telehealth platforms used, and the availability of virtual support groups for lung cancer patients are essential considerations.

The integration of mental health resources into lung cancer care is paramount. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care physicians play a critical role in identifying and addressing these needs. The availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists, and access to support groups are crucial. Moreover, practices that proactively screen patients for mental health issues and integrate mental health services into their treatment plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, which is crucial for improving the overall quality of life for lung cancer patients.

Specific information about individual practices in 28539 is vital. This includes identifying those that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). Practices that utilize evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with local hospitals and cancer centers to ensure seamless referrals for diagnosis and treatment are highly desirable. Researching the specific services offered by each practice, including the availability of diagnostic imaging, the expertise of the medical staff, and the practice's overall approach to patient care, is crucial for making informed decisions.

The accessibility of lung cancer specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. While primary care physicians provide the initial point of contact and often coordinate care, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. Assessing the proximity of specialist practices to 28539, the availability of appointments, and the ability to quickly refer patients to specialists are vital considerations. Furthermore, understanding the referral patterns of local primary care physicians and their relationships with specialists can provide insights into the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system.

Evaluating the availability of patient education materials and resources is also important. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment. This includes providing written materials, online resources, and access to patient navigators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and health education initiatives demonstrate a dedication to improving public health and promoting early detection of lung cancer.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Hubert, NC (28539) requires a multifaceted approach. While a definitive numerical score is not possible without specific data, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key components of care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial factors. By understanding these elements, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare landscape.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hubert and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and help you navigate the healthcare system effectively.