28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 56.08 percent of the residents in 28543 has some form of health insurance. 8.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.72 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 28543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,968 health care providers accessible to residents in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28543 & Primary Care in Tarawa Terrace

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina (ZIP code 28543), focusing on factors relevant to early lung cancer detection and patient support. We aim to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering elements like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for a comprehensive approach to patient care, particularly for those at risk or undergoing treatment for lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the presence of a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the initial critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 28543 is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially missed opportunities for early screening or intervention. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive care and improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or state medical boards can provide insights into the number of licensed PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code. This data needs to be contextualized with the demographic profile of Tarawa Terrace, considering the age distribution, prevalence of risk factors (smoking history, etc.), and the presence of any underserved populations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are vital. We must evaluate the type of practices available: are they solo practices, group practices, or affiliated with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially greater access to specialists. Practices associated with established healthcare systems might have better infrastructure for electronic health records (EHRs), facilitating seamless communication and coordination of care, which is essential for lung cancer patients who require a multidisciplinary approach. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray capabilities, can streamline the diagnostic process, reducing the time from initial suspicion to definitive diagnosis.

Another critical aspect is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its presence can enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing far from a physician's office. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to support groups. The ability to remotely monitor symptoms and provide timely interventions can significantly improve the quality of life for those undergoing treatment or recovery. The analysis should assess the extent to which practices in 28543 offer telemedicine options and the types of services available through these platforms.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health services is, therefore, essential. The analysis should investigate whether primary care practices in 28543 have mental health professionals on staff or partnerships with local mental health providers. The ability to seamlessly integrate mental health support into the patient's care plan can significantly improve their overall well-being and their ability to adhere to treatment regimens.

Identifying "standout practices" within the area is important. This requires a more granular analysis, looking at factors like patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management, and the presence of dedicated patient navigators. Patient navigators are invaluable in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive support services, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection and preventative care would be considered high-performing in this context. Information on patient satisfaction can be gathered from patient reviews, online rating platforms, and, if available, data from local healthcare organizations.

The analysis also needs to consider the presence of any specialized lung cancer care facilities within the area or nearby. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity to oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists is a significant factor in the overall quality of care available to patients. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department, or easy access to such facilities in neighboring communities, can dramatically improve patient outcomes. The analysis should identify the nearest hospitals and cancer centers and assess their capabilities and accessibility.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall healthcare infrastructure of the area. This includes the availability of transportation options for patients, the presence of community health programs, and the level of health insurance coverage among the local population. These factors can significantly impact access to care and patient outcomes. A comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" would incorporate all these factors, weighting them based on their relative importance. The score would provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28543, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This analysis would provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve lung cancer outcomes in the Tarawa Terrace area.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and proximity to specialized care facilities, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic way to understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.