28602, Hickory, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28602, Hickory, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.63 percent of the residents in 28602 has some form of health insurance. 38.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.74 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 28602 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,058 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28602. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,740 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,567 health care providers accessible to residents in 28602, Hickory, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hickory, NC (ZIP Code 28602)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Hickory, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28602, with a lens on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The primary goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering primary care access, specialist availability, and supportive services crucial for individuals navigating this complex disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates robust primary care infrastructure, capable of screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals. In Hickory (28602), the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical metric. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, is essential to determining this ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, simply knowing the ratio is insufficient; we must also consider the distribution of these physicians. Are they concentrated in specific areas of the ZIP code, potentially leaving underserved populations? Are they accepting new patients?

Standout primary care practices in 28602 should be identified based on several criteria. This includes the availability of advanced screening tools, such as low-dose CT scans (for high-risk individuals), and their commitment to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to educate the public about lung cancer risks and prevention are particularly valuable. Furthermore, the efficiency of their referral processes to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is crucial. A streamlined referral process minimizes delays in diagnosis and treatment, a critical factor in lung cancer outcomes.

The availability of pulmonologists and oncologists within and immediately adjacent to 28602 is another significant factor. The proximity of these specialists is vital for timely consultations, diagnostic procedures (bronchoscopies, biopsies), and treatment initiation. The number of specialists, their board certifications, and their affiliations with reputable hospitals and cancer centers all contribute to the overall quality of care. Examining the specialists' experience in treating lung cancer, their participation in clinical trials, and their use of advanced treatment modalities (targeted therapies, immunotherapy) are important considerations.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in 28602 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education should be evaluated. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. It can also facilitate communication between patients and their care teams, leading to better adherence to treatment plans.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is essential. These resources should be readily accessible and integrated into the patient's overall care plan. Support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 28602 would be a composite of these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices (screening, referrals), the availability of specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists), the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would be a relative measure, allowing for comparison with other areas and highlighting areas of strength and weakness.

For example, a high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a strong network of specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A low score would indicate potential challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and poorer patient outcomes.

The assessment would also consider the availability of patient navigators or care coordinators. These professionals play a critical role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Their presence can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" would incorporate data on hospital quality, including metrics such as survival rates, complication rates, and patient satisfaction. Hospitals with specialized lung cancer programs, accredited by organizations like the Commission on Cancer, would be viewed favorably. The presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists from various disciplines collaborate on treatment plans, would also be considered a positive factor.

The analysis would also explore the availability of financial assistance programs for lung cancer patients. The cost of treatment can be substantial, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing the care they need. The presence of resources that help patients navigate insurance coverage, access financial aid, and manage their medical expenses is crucial.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for Hickory (28602) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the healthcare infrastructure, the quality of care provided, and the availability of supportive services. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area, with a focus on factors that impact lung cancer patients.

To visualize and better understand the geographical distribution of these healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, highlighting areas of high and low access, and helping to identify potential gaps in care.