28609, Catawba, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28609, Catawba, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 28609 has some form of health insurance. 36.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.72 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 28609 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,096 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28609. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,410 health care providers accessible to residents in 28609, Catawba, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 28609 & Catawba Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28609, encompassing parts of Catawba County, and assessing the availability of primary care resources in the broader Catawba County is crucial for patient well-being. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, considering factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. The goal is to offer insights that empower patients and inform healthcare providers.

The foundation of any robust lung cancer care system is a strong primary care network. In Catawba County, understanding the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Ideally, the ratio should be favorable, indicating sufficient primary care physicians to serve the population's needs. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times for appointments, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, can be used to determine these ratios.

The quality of primary care practices within Catawba County is also important. Are practices patient-centered? Do they offer comprehensive services, including preventive screenings, early detection programs, and coordinated care? Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), are vital. These screenings, especially for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers), are crucial for early detection, which significantly improves survival rates.

Identifying standout practices within the 28609 ZIP code and Catawba County requires evaluating several factors. These practices likely have a commitment to patient education, proactive screening initiatives, and efficient referral processes. They likely foster a culture of open communication and collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists. Patient reviews, practice websites, and professional directories can provide valuable information about the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Its impact on lung cancer care is considerable. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients' health, and access to specialists, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are likely to offer greater convenience and accessibility to care. This is particularly important for patients undergoing treatment or managing chronic conditions related to lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to these resources can improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for the 28609 ZIP code and Catawba County is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It is not a single, definitive number, but rather a nuanced evaluation. A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, proactive primary care practices, significant telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A low score would indicate the opposite, highlighting areas for improvement.

Specific practices within the 28609 ZIP code and Catawba County would need to be individually assessed to assign a score. This would involve examining their websites, contacting their offices, and reviewing publicly available data. It would also involve assessing the availability of pulmonologists and oncologists in the area, as well as the proximity of hospitals with specialized lung cancer treatment centers.

The availability of specialists is crucial. The presence of pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for comprehensive lung cancer care. The proximity of these specialists and their ability to collaborate effectively with primary care physicians are key factors in patient outcomes.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for Catawba County is likely influenced by its demographics. The prevalence of smoking and other risk factors for lung cancer will influence the demand for screening and treatment services. Data on smoking rates, air quality, and socioeconomic factors can provide valuable context for the analysis.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in the 28609 ZIP code and Catawba County. It is a starting point for patients seeking care, healthcare providers striving to improve their services, and policymakers working to enhance access to quality healthcare.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, the location of practices, and the accessibility of specialists, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.