28570, Newport, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28570, Newport, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.81 percent of the residents in 28570 has some form of health insurance. 37.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.74 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 28570 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,333 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28570. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,974 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 28570, Newport, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Newport, NC (ZIP Code 28570) - An Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within the 28570 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability in Newport, North Carolina. The score is a composite, considering factors relevant to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being, particularly in the context of lung cancer. The aim is to offer a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. This is where early detection through screening, risk assessment, and referral to specialists begins. Newport, as a relatively small coastal community, presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for calculating this ratio accurately. Publicly available information on physician practices, patient panels, and patient demographics are also necessary for a comprehensive assessment. The analysis should incorporate the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28570 ZIP code and the estimated population served.

Beyond physician numbers, the distribution of primary care services is vital. Are practices clustered in specific areas, creating healthcare deserts for some residents? Is there a good mix of family medicine, internal medicine, and other relevant specialties? Geographic accessibility, considering transportation options and the needs of elderly or disabled patients, is also a key factor. The analysis should examine the locations of primary care practices, their hours of operation, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments.

Standout practices within the Newport area deserve recognition. These are the practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly concerning lung cancer prevention and early detection. This could include practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and have robust systems for patient follow-up. The analysis should identify practices that excel in these areas, noting their specific strategies and achievements. This assessment can be based on patient reviews, physician ratings, and publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in Newport utilize telemedicine, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs) and the technologies employed. The availability of telehealth services can be a significant advantage in facilitating early detection and timely treatment of lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can be significant, impacting treatment adherence and overall quality of life. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services within the Newport area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Are primary care practices integrated with mental health providers? Do they have systems for screening patients for depression and anxiety? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score should also consider the availability of specialized cancer care. While primary care is critical for early detection, patients diagnosed with lung cancer require access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists. The analysis should evaluate the proximity of Newport to cancer centers and hospitals that offer comprehensive cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other treatment modalities. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team is a significant advantage, ensuring that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the community's health awareness and education efforts. Are there initiatives to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking and exposure to radon? Are there programs to promote healthy lifestyles and encourage early detection? The analysis should examine the involvement of local organizations, such as hospitals, clinics, and community groups, in these efforts. The level of community engagement can significantly impact lung cancer outcomes.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score is not static. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes monitoring the physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis should also track changes in cancer care services and community health initiatives. The goal is to provide a dynamic and relevant assessment of the healthcare system in Newport, NC, enabling informed decision-making and driving improvements in lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Newport, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare services, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.