28544, Midway Park, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28544, Midway Park, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.30 percent of the residents in 28544 has some form of health insurance. 25.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.47 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 28544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,201 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 374 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,537 health care providers accessible to residents in 28544, Midway Park, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Midway Park, NC (ZIP Code 28544)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within the Midway Park, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28544) area. The focus is on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors that impact lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The analysis incorporates data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing optimal care for individuals affected by this disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon strong primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for individuals exhibiting symptoms or at high risk. In Midway Park, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to greater access to care and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. While specific, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and require constant updating from sources like the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, an investigation into the current landscape is essential. This research would identify the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 28544 ZIP code and compare that number to the estimated population of Midway Park. This comparison will provide a preliminary understanding of access to primary care.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are vital. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have experience in managing patients with chronic conditions, including those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a significant factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between physicians, improve care coordination, and allow for the easy sharing of patient information, which is especially important in the complex management of lung cancer. Practices that are part of larger healthcare networks may have access to more specialized resources and a wider range of diagnostic and treatment options.

Identifying standout practices within the 28544 ZIP code is crucial. These practices might demonstrate exemplary patient care, innovative approaches to lung cancer screening and prevention, or a strong commitment to patient education. This could involve researching practices that are actively involved in community outreach programs to promote smoking cessation or lung cancer awareness. Identifying practices with a history of early cancer detection through appropriate screening protocols, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, would also be beneficial. Reviews from patients and insights from healthcare professionals can provide valuable information to determine the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations or phone calls, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients who may require regular follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists. Investigating the availability of telemedicine services among primary care practices in Midway Park will help assess the accessibility of healthcare.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for helping patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany this disease. This assessment should include an investigation into the availability of mental health services within the 28544 ZIP code, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to external mental health providers. Furthermore, the availability of support groups and other community resources for lung cancer patients and their families is an important consideration.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Midway Park, NC (28544) would be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. This score is not a single number, but rather a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to lung cancer care. The score would be a function of the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis would also take into account the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. While these specialists may not be located directly within the 28544 ZIP code, their proximity and accessibility are crucial. Investigating the referral patterns of primary care practices in Midway Park to identify the hospitals and specialist networks they utilize is a key component of this analysis. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Midway Park, NC (28544), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. It highlights the importance of access to primary care, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This information is essential for individuals seeking healthcare in the area and for healthcare providers looking to improve the quality of care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations.
**Explore the power of location intelligence. Visualize the data and discover the spatial relationships of healthcare resources in Midway Park and beyond with CartoChrome maps.**