28577, Sealevel, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28577, Sealevel, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 64.81 percent of the residents in 28577 has some form of health insurance. 23.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.79 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 28577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 60 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 52 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19 health care providers accessible to residents in 28577, Sealevel, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28577 and Primary Care in Sealevel**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP Code 28577, encompassing the community of Sealevel, North Carolina, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates. The ability to secure timely screenings, accurate diagnoses, and prompt referrals to specialists is paramount. Within ZIP Code 28577, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians for the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures and treatment initiation. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better patient outcomes. This analysis will delve into the current physician-to-patient ratio within the specified area, comparing it to state and national averages to gauge the relative level of access.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and comprehensive patient management. Factors considered include the utilization of evidence-based screening guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the availability of support services. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs, offering smoking cessation resources, and fostering strong relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists are particularly valuable in the context of lung cancer care. This analysis will identify any practices demonstrating these characteristics within ZIP Code 28577.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its potential to improve access to care for individuals in underserved communities is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving the timeliness of care. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, especially for patients residing in areas with limited access to specialized care. This analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices within ZIP Code 28577, evaluating the types of services offered and the impact on patient access.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, an essential component of comprehensive care. This analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or facilitating referrals to mental health specialists, is a key factor in providing holistic patient support.

The community of Sealevel, located within ZIP Code 28577, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The demographic profile, including age distribution, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation, influences the healthcare needs of the population. This analysis will consider the specific characteristics of Sealevel and assess how they impact the availability and accessibility of primary care services. The presence of any community-based initiatives, such as health fairs, screening programs, or support groups, will also be evaluated.

Assessing the quality of care involves considering several factors beyond mere access. The utilization of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount. This includes adherence to recommendations from organizations like the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is also crucial. This analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices within ZIP Code 28577 adhere to these guidelines and have access to necessary diagnostic resources.

The referral process plays a vital role in ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care. Efficient communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists are essential for seamless patient management. This analysis will assess the strength of referral networks within the area, evaluating the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to specialists and the timeliness of specialist appointments. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which bring together various specialists to coordinate patient care, is also a positive indicator.

The integration of technology can significantly enhance the delivery of lung cancer care. Electronic health records (EHRs) enable efficient information sharing and facilitate care coordination. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments. The adoption of these technologies by primary care practices within ZIP Code 28577 will be evaluated, as it can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery.

Patient education and empowerment are crucial aspects of lung cancer care. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, treatment options, and available resources are better equipped to actively participate in their care. This analysis will assess the availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, within the area. The provision of smoking cessation resources, including counseling and medication, is also a key factor in preventing lung cancer and improving patient outcomes.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP Code 28577 and primary care availability in Sealevel will be a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed above. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score will be based on a combination of quantitative data, such as physician-to-patient ratios and telemedicine adoption rates, and qualitative assessments, such as the availability of patient support services and the strength of referral networks. The final score will offer an actionable overview of the area's preparedness to address lung cancer.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 28577, including the locations of medical practices, specialists, and available resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare services and identifying potential gaps in access.