28553, Marshallberg, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28553, Marshallberg, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.23 percent of the residents in 28553 has some form of health insurance. 26.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.19 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 28553 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28553. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,185 health care providers accessible to residents in 28553, Marshallberg, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marshallberg, NC (ZIP Code 28553)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the context of Marshallberg, North Carolina (ZIP code 28553). We will assess the landscape of primary care physicians, considering physician-to-patient ratios, and examine the adoption of telemedicine and mental health resources, all crucial factors in a patient's journey with lung cancer. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Marshallberg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and less time for comprehensive patient education and support. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 28553 requires accessing local and state health data. However, we can anticipate a potential challenge given the rural nature of the area. Limited access to primary care physicians can significantly impact early detection, which is vital for successful lung cancer treatment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the proactive implementation of lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines advocate for annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for individuals at high risk, specifically those with a significant smoking history. The analysis must identify if primary care practices in Marshallberg are actively promoting and facilitating these screenings. This includes assessing the availability of LDCT scanning facilities and the efficiency of referral processes to pulmonologists and oncologists.

Identifying standout practices within 28553 is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing strategies that improve outcomes. This could involve implementing robust patient education programs about lung cancer risks and symptoms, offering smoking cessation support, and establishing efficient communication channels between primary care physicians and specialists. These practices might also be early adopters of innovative technologies and patient management techniques. Investigating these practices is crucial for understanding the best practices available within the community.

Telemedicine plays a growing role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. Assessing telemedicine adoption within Marshallberg is critical. Does the area's primary care network offer telehealth consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive timely specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health support without the need for extensive travel. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a key factor influencing the effectiveness of telemedicine in this area.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within or readily accessible to the Marshallberg community. Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? Are there programs specifically designed to address the unique needs of lung cancer patients and their families? Access to mental health support can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Marshallberg, NC (28553) will be a composite assessment. It will weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, the proactive implementation of lung cancer screening guidelines, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate strong primary care availability, proactive screening, access to specialists via telemedicine, and robust mental health support. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as limited access to primary care, inadequate screening practices, and a lack of mental health resources.

This score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the dynamic healthcare landscape. It is essential to regularly update this assessment to track progress and identify emerging needs. The score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within 28553 is vital. This includes recognizing potential barriers to care, such as transportation limitations, socioeconomic factors, and cultural considerations. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower individuals affected by lung cancer in Marshallberg. By understanding the healthcare resources available, patients can advocate for their own needs and make informed decisions about their care. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and a call to action for improving the quality of lung cancer care in this community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and their relationship to lung cancer prevalence and outcomes, we recommend exploring interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of these factors, allowing for a more nuanced and data-driven analysis. Explore CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare landscape of Marshallberg and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals affected by lung cancer.