28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.80 percent of the residents in 28540 has some form of health insurance. 34.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.61 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 28540 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,917 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28540. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,752 health care providers accessible to residents in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28540), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately impacting a patient's journey through this challenging disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt treatment. This begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. Jacksonville’s primary care landscape is the initial point of assessment. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 28540 ZIP code is a crucial metric. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delays in screening and diagnosis. This ratio should be compared to national and state averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care within the community.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the availability of preventive services, such as lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, adhering to established guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), deserve recognition. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also critical. EHRs allow for seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and hospitals, ensuring continuity of care and facilitating efficient information sharing, which is particularly vital in the complex management of lung cancer.

Standout practices in Jacksonville should be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care. This could include practices with extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day availability for urgent needs. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into patient experiences, reflecting factors like wait times, communication with providers, and overall satisfaction. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education, providing clear and accessible information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the quality of care. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care can also reduce the burden on patients and improve their overall quality of life. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure and convenient virtual consultations, deserve recognition for their forward-thinking approach.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology and related challenges. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is also a positive indicator. These groups provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Jacksonville, NC (28540) is ultimately a composite assessment. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of preventive services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The score would also weigh the quality of care offered by standout practices, as evidenced by patient reviews and their commitment to patient education and support. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients, with greater access to timely diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and supportive care. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis should not be limited to the immediate ZIP code. The availability of specialists, hospitals, and specialized cancer centers in the surrounding areas, accessible to patients in 28540, must also be considered. Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, offering advanced treatment options like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, is critical for optimal patient outcomes. The coordination of care between primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals is essential for ensuring a seamless and effective treatment journey.

The assessment should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. Factors like insurance coverage, transportation challenges, and health literacy can create barriers for some patients. The analysis should identify any initiatives or programs in place to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to care for all residents of Jacksonville.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is dynamic, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It should be updated regularly to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of the healthcare resources available to lung cancer patients in Jacksonville, empowering patients, providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions and improve the quality of care.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jacksonville, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you identify the location of healthcare providers, assess physician density, and analyze access to resources.