28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.55 percent of the residents in 28546 has some form of health insurance. 32.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.04 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 28546 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,800 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28546. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

The following analysis evaluates primary care physician resources and related healthcare factors within ZIP code 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina, with a particular focus on elements relevant to lung cancer care and early detection. This assessment considers physician availability, access to specialized services, and the overall healthcare infrastructure, offering insights into the local landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection, crucial for improved outcomes, often begins with a primary care physician (PCP) who can identify risk factors, order screenings, and guide patients through the diagnostic process. In Jacksonville, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, an analysis of publicly available data and local healthcare provider information suggests a moderate level of access. The area experiences periodic challenges in attracting and retaining primary care physicians, particularly in certain underserved pockets. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder timely access to care.

Standout practices within the 28546 ZIP code demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive screening. These practices often prioritize patient education regarding lung cancer risk factors, including smoking cessation programs, and integrate screening protocols for high-risk individuals. They may also have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care. The practices that excel in this area typically utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for efficient tracking of patient health histories, screening results, and follow-up appointments. Furthermore, these practices actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer and promote early detection.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. In Jacksonville, the adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care providers is growing, though it varies across practices. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine often report increased patient satisfaction and improved efficiency. However, challenges remain, including ensuring adequate internet access for patients and addressing the digital divide.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging for patients and their families. Access to mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of these resources within the 28546 ZIP code is variable. While some practices have integrated mental health services into their care models, others may rely on referrals to external providers. The presence of local support groups and community-based mental health organizations is also a key factor in assessing the overall mental health support system.

A comprehensive lung cancer score for the area would incorporate several key metrics. These include the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care, the percentage of practices offering lung cancer screening, the adoption rate of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would also consider the presence of smoking cessation programs, the efficiency of referral pathways, and the availability of patient education materials. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system for lung cancer care.

Further analysis involves the specific practices within the area. Some practices have invested in advanced technology, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners, which are essential for lung cancer screening. These practices often have dedicated staff trained in interpreting screening results and managing patients with suspicious findings. They also actively participate in quality improvement initiatives to ensure the effectiveness of their screening programs. Other practices may focus on patient education and advocacy, empowering patients to take an active role in their health.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a vital role in coordinating care. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can share patient information seamlessly with specialists, ensuring that all healthcare providers are informed about a patient's condition and treatment plan. EHRs also facilitate the tracking of screening results, allowing physicians to identify patients who are due for follow-up appointments. The ability to access and share patient data is crucial for providing comprehensive and coordinated lung cancer care.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in Jacksonville, NC, within the 28546 ZIP code, reflects a dynamic environment. While there are challenges related to physician availability and access to specialized services, there are also opportunities for improvement. The adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the implementation of proactive screening programs are all positive developments. The practices that are committed to providing patient-centered care and utilizing technology effectively are likely to achieve the best outcomes.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jacksonville, NC, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services, we encourage you to explore the data through interactive maps.

**Explore the healthcare landscape of Jacksonville, NC, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician availability, access to specialized services, and other critical factors impacting lung cancer care. Visit CartoChrome today to uncover the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare.**