28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.15 percent of the residents in 28604 has some form of health insurance. 38.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.61 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 28604 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,571 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28604. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,819 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,912 health care providers accessible to residents in 28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina.

The assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28604, encompassing Banner Elk, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the broader healthcare infrastructure. This analysis aims to provide an understanding of the current landscape, evaluating factors that impact patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

Banner Elk, a town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its relatively small population and geographical isolation influence the delivery of medical services. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to increased wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for conditions like lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, which can be beneficial. Specific data on this ratio within 28604 is essential. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information.

The presence of standout primary care practices is another key factor. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing evidence-based practices and offering comprehensive services. Evaluating these practices involves considering factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative screenings, chronic disease management), and the integration of technology. Practices that proactively screen for lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards, are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Its impact on lung cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists, allowing for timely diagnosis and treatment planning. It can also be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. The extent to which primary care practices in 28604 have embraced telemedicine is a crucial aspect of this analysis.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is critical in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients through their treatment journey. Primary care practices that offer or have established referral pathways to mental health services are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes not only access to therapists but also resources for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

Evaluating the overall healthcare infrastructure requires considering the availability of specialized services. While primary care is the foundation of healthcare, patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer require access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. The proximity of these specialists to Banner Elk and the ease of access to their services are important. Hospitals in the region, particularly those equipped with advanced diagnostic tools like CT scanners and PET scanners, play a vital role in lung cancer diagnosis and staging.

Specific practices within 28604 should be evaluated based on their commitment to lung cancer screening and early detection. This includes assessing their adherence to national guidelines for screening, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening for eligible patients are making a significant contribution to early detection and improved patient outcomes. This may involve offering low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers.

The availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, is another critical consideration. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is essential for both prevention and treatment. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs are demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. These programs typically include counseling, medication, and ongoing support to help patients quit smoking successfully.

The assessment should also consider the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses. Effective communication and collaboration among these providers are essential for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. Practices that utilize electronic health records and other tools to facilitate communication and care coordination are better positioned to provide comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the patient experience. This includes assessing factors like wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling appointments, the communication skills of healthcare providers, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient feedback, obtained through surveys or other means, can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 28604.

The economic factors impacting healthcare access in Banner Elk are also important. The affordability of healthcare services, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care. The analysis should consider the prevalence of different insurance plans in the area, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of healthcare services.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in 28604, Banner Elk requires a comprehensive understanding of various factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. By evaluating these factors, it is possible to identify areas of strength and weakness and to develop strategies for improving the quality of care for lung cancer patients in this unique environment.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28604 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to explore geographic data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the healthcare resources available in Banner Elk and surrounding areas.