28585, Trenton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28585, Trenton, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.20 percent of the residents in 28585 has some form of health insurance. 50.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.51 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 28585 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 572 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28585. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 953 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,466 health care providers accessible to residents in 28585, Trenton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Trenton, NC (ZIP Code 28585)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer detection and treatment, within Trenton, North Carolina (ZIP code 28585) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will consider factors influencing patient access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and its implications for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis.

Trenton, a small town in Jones County, presents unique challenges and opportunities within its healthcare system. One of the primary concerns is the physician-to-patient ratio. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of primary care physicians and specialists, potentially hindering timely diagnoses and treatment. While precise figures fluctuate, the ratio in Trenton is likely less favorable than in more urbanized areas. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see specialists, and a greater reliance on the existing medical infrastructure.

The presence of standout practices significantly impacts the overall quality of care. Identifying and evaluating these practices involves assessing their capabilities in early detection, treatment protocols, and patient support services. Does the area have access to advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans, which are crucial for early lung cancer detection? Are there pulmonologists or oncologists within a reasonable commuting distance? The existence of accredited cancer centers or partnerships with larger hospitals in nearby cities would be a significant advantage.

Telemedicine offers a crucial bridge to healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local providers can mitigate the challenges posed by geographical isolation and physician shortages. Telemedicine platforms can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be physically present in Trenton. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires researching the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technological infrastructure supporting these services.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health resources are, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of the disease. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the presence of mental health providers, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall healthcare system.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Trenton, NC (28585) would be influenced by these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to specialists would negatively impact the score. The absence of advanced diagnostic tools and a lack of telemedicine adoption would further diminish the score. Conversely, the presence of standout practices, a robust telemedicine infrastructure, and readily available mental health resources would elevate the score.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score, several steps can be taken. Recruiting and retaining physicians, particularly primary care physicians and specialists, is paramount. This can involve offering incentives, improving infrastructure, and fostering a supportive professional environment. Expanding telemedicine capabilities through investments in technology and training can also significantly improve access to care. Furthermore, promoting the integration of mental health services into the healthcare system is crucial for providing comprehensive patient support.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Trenton, NC, requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The healthcare system is dynamic, and changes in physician availability, technology adoption, and resource allocation can significantly impact the quality of care. Regular assessments are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the best possible care.

The challenges faced by Trenton, NC, are not unique. Many rural communities across the country grapple with similar issues related to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations. By working together, these stakeholders can create a healthcare system that meets the needs of all residents.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide individuals in Trenton with the best possible chance of early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive support. This requires a proactive and ongoing commitment to improving the healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need to fight lung cancer.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Trenton, NC, and visualize the data related to physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for analyzing geographic data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.