28560, New Bern, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28560, New Bern, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.03 percent of the residents in 28560 has some form of health insurance. 42.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.22 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 28560 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,965 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28560. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,031 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,163 health care providers accessible to residents in 28560, New Bern, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: New Bern, NC (ZIP Code 28560)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within ZIP Code 28560, focusing on primary care availability in New Bern, North Carolina. The score considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This is not a definitive ranking but rather an assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screening, coupled with swift referral to specialists, significantly improves patient outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in New Bern is therefore a critical factor. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is essential. A higher ratio (fewer patients per PCP) generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and timely appointments. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can provide this information. The analysis will consider the most current data available to determine the PCP-to-patient ratio within the designated ZIP code. A low ratio is a positive indicator, suggesting greater accessibility to primary care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is crucial. This includes evaluating the adoption of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote and facilitate LDCT screening, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), will score higher. The analysis will investigate the screening protocols and the frequency with which PCPs are ordering and referring for LDCT scans. Furthermore, the analysis will assess the availability of on-site or readily accessible radiology services. Proximity to imaging centers that offer LDCT scans is a crucial element in the process.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 28560 will be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes the integration of patient education materials, smoking cessation programs, and coordinated care pathways. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, empowering individuals to understand their risk factors and make informed decisions, will be recognized. The analysis will also evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs, a vital component in preventing lung cancer and improving treatment outcomes. Practices that offer such programs, either directly or through referral, will receive favorable consideration.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in New Bern is a key factor. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing travel burdens and improving patient convenience. The analysis will assess the extent to which PCPs in the area utilize telemedicine platforms for patient care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and utilizing remote monitoring technologies, will be viewed favorably.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks. Practices that prioritize mental health support, either through on-site therapists or established partnerships with mental health providers, will receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of counseling, support groups, and other mental health resources for patients and their families.

The analysis will also consider the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their impact on care coordination. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, facilitating seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, will score higher. This includes evaluating the ability of practices to share patient data electronically, improving communication and coordination of care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted importance of each factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support will all contribute to the final score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, comprehensive care, and patient well-being will receive higher scores. This analysis will not provide specific names of practices, but rather a generalized assessment of the healthcare environment.

The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and this analysis reflects the information available at the time of its creation. The quality of care is subject to change as practices evolve and new technologies emerge. It is important for patients to actively engage in their healthcare, seeking information and asking questions. The analysis is intended to provide a general overview and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the availability of resources in New Bern and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you identify healthcare providers, locate imaging centers, and assess access to various services. Utilize CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a spatial understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in your area.