28552, Lowland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28552, Lowland, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.98 percent of the residents in 28552 has some form of health insurance. 83.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.78 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 28552 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28552. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 97 health care providers accessible to residents in 28552, Lowland, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare in ZIP Code 28552 and Lowland Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28552, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will consider the availability of primary care physicians in the nearby area of Lowland, as this is often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection. This relies heavily on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) who can screen for symptoms, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists. In Lowland, the presence and accessibility of PCPs are critical. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. Analyzing data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare providers is necessary to determine the specific physician-to-patient ratio in Lowland. This information is crucial for understanding the potential barriers to timely care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Are the practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners for lung cancer screening? Do they adhere to established guidelines for screening based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors? Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education, are particularly valuable. Identifying standout practices in Lowland involves examining patient reviews, assessing the experience of healthcare providers, and evaluating the availability of comprehensive services.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas like Lowland, by providing remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. The ability to conduct virtual visits can improve patient convenience, reduce travel time, and facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration in Lowland involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointment options, the types of services offered remotely, and patient satisfaction with these services.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore essential for patients navigating this challenging journey. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health services, either within their own facilities or through external partnerships. Furthermore, support groups and educational programs tailored to the needs of lung cancer patients can provide valuable emotional support and information. Evaluating the availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Lowland involves identifying local mental health providers, assessing the availability of support groups, and evaluating the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

Beyond primary care, access to specialized cancer care is critical. This includes oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Lowland and the ease with which patients can access their services are important considerations. Analyzing the network of specialists available to patients in Lowland involves identifying local cancer centers, assessing the availability of specialized services, and evaluating the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists.

Furthermore, the presence of a robust support system is crucial. This includes access to social workers, patient navigators, and other professionals who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, manage their treatment, and connect with community resources. Evaluating the availability of these support services involves identifying local organizations that provide patient support, assessing the availability of patient navigators, and evaluating the integration of these services into the overall care model.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. These factors include income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation availability. Patients with limited financial resources or transportation challenges may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive approach that includes providing financial assistance, offering transportation services, and ensuring that healthcare providers are sensitive to the needs of diverse patient populations.

Finally, the overall assessment of healthcare in ZIP Code 28552 and Lowland should be based on a holistic approach, considering all the factors discussed above. This includes a comprehensive evaluation of the availability and quality of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the access to specialized cancer care, the presence of a robust support system, and the consideration of socioeconomic factors.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28552 and Lowland, including geographic visualizations of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, the accessibility of services, and the potential disparities in care.