28606, Boomer, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.00 percent of the residents in 28606 has some form of health insurance. 40.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.06 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 28606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28606. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 28606, Boomer, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28606, focusing on physician availability and the broader healthcare ecosystem in Boomer, North Carolina, with an emphasis on factors influencing patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, particularly as it pertains to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and qualified medical professionals. Within 28606, a key consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and oncologists. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to specialists, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients. Assessing this ratio requires data collection from various sources, including insurance providers, hospital systems, and state licensing boards. This data needs to be constantly updated to reflect physician movement, retirements, and new arrivals.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care hinges on the expertise and experience of the medical professionals. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as physician board certifications, years of experience, patient satisfaction scores, and participation in clinical trials. Practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, offer comprehensive diagnostic capabilities (including advanced imaging and biopsy techniques), and maintain strong referral networks are crucial for providing optimal lung cancer care. Researching the affiliations of local physicians, such as their connections to larger hospital systems or cancer centers, can reveal the level of resources and support available.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Boomer. Its adoption rate among local physicians is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and mental health support, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances, which can be especially challenging for those undergoing cancer treatment. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered, the platforms used, and the insurance coverage for these services, is essential.

The mental and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Evaluating the availability of these resources within 28606 involves identifying local mental health providers, assessing their capacity to serve cancer patients, and determining the level of collaboration between these providers and the medical community. Furthermore, understanding the availability of resources for financial assistance, such as support groups and patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, is crucial.

Primary care availability in Boomer is a significant factor impacting the overall quality of care. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Early detection is critical for improving survival rates, and PCPs play a vital role in screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals to specialists. Evaluating the number of PCPs in Boomer, their geographic distribution, their patient load, and their willingness to participate in lung cancer screening programs are key considerations.

Furthermore, the healthcare infrastructure in Boomer, including the availability of diagnostic equipment, treatment facilities, and support services, must be evaluated. This includes the presence of CT scanners, PET scanners, radiation therapy units, and chemotherapy infusion centers. The proximity of these facilities to Boomer residents and the efficiency of their operations are crucial.

Analyzing the integration of different healthcare providers is also essential. This involves assessing the level of communication and collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. A well-coordinated care team can improve patient outcomes by ensuring that patients receive the right care at the right time. This can be assessed through electronic health record interoperability, the use of shared care plans, and regular multidisciplinary team meetings.

The specific needs of the patient population in Boomer should be considered. This includes factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. Addressing these needs requires tailoring healthcare services to the unique characteristics of the community. For instance, offering transportation assistance to patients undergoing treatment or providing culturally sensitive care to diverse populations.

The healthcare landscape in 28606 and Boomer is dynamic. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the community has access to the best possible lung cancer care. This includes tracking changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the effectiveness of support services. This data needs to be continually updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

Finally, the overall quality of care is influenced by factors beyond the direct provision of medical services. This includes the availability of patient education materials, the accessibility of health insurance, and the level of community awareness about lung cancer prevention and early detection.

To visualize and analyze the complex data described above, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to create interactive maps that visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28606 and Boomer. Explore the possibilities and unlock the power of spatial analysis for better healthcare insights.