28624, Ferguson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.67 percent of the residents in 28624 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.45 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 28624 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28624. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer-related care within ZIP code 28624, encompassing Ferguson, North Carolina, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) resources and associated factors. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about lung cancer risk and treatment in this specific geographical area.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Ferguson, 28624, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. A lower physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses for lung cancer. This is particularly concerning given the aggressive nature of the disease. The availability of PCPs is the first line of defense, as they are often the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at high risk due to smoking history or other factors.

Assessing the quality of care requires examining the practices themselves. Identifying standout practices involves considering several elements. These include the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners, crucial for early detection of lung nodules. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening programs and smoking cessation counseling, are highly desirable. Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer treatment and prevention demonstrate a dedication to staying at the forefront of medical advancements.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural communities. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources through telemedicine can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their care delivery models are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide timely access to expert opinions.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, and the treatment process can be physically and mentally challenging. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health services, including counseling and support groups, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. These resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease, improving their overall well-being and potentially enhancing their treatment adherence.

Specific practices within 28624 and surrounding areas will be evaluated. This involves an in-depth review of their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data. The focus will be on identifying practices that meet the criteria outlined above, including the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, a commitment to preventative care, the adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources. The absence of readily available information on these criteria will negatively impact the practice's ranking.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the presence of any specialized lung cancer care centers or partnerships with larger hospitals or cancer centers in the region. These affiliations can provide access to a wider range of specialists, advanced treatment options, and clinical trials. The proximity to such resources is a significant advantage for patients in Ferguson.

The evaluation of primary care availability extends beyond the number of physicians. It includes an assessment of appointment availability, the acceptance of new patients, and the insurance plans accepted by each practice. Practices with readily available appointments, a willingness to accept new patients, and a broad range of insurance coverage are more accessible to the community.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the patient population served by each practice. Practices that serve a diverse population and demonstrate cultural sensitivity in their approach to care are more likely to provide equitable access to quality healthcare.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another critical factor. Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking, and effective smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. Practices that offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to preventing lung cancer.

The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in Ferguson, 28624. This analysis aims to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and highlight areas where improvements are needed. The findings will inform individuals seeking care, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The final Lung Cancer Score for each practice will be based on a weighted scoring system. Each criterion, such as physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, will be assigned a weight based on its importance in determining the quality and accessibility of care. The scores will be aggregated to provide an overall ranking for each practice.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. Publicly available data may not always provide a complete picture of the healthcare landscape. Patient reviews can be subjective. However, every effort will be made to gather and analyze the most accurate and up-to-date information available.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and food security can significantly impact health outcomes. The analysis will identify any disparities in care and highlight the need for interventions to address these issues.

The final report will include recommendations for improving lung cancer care in Ferguson, 28624. These recommendations may include increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to telemedicine, and promoting smoking cessation programs.

In conclusion, the availability and quality of lung cancer-related care in Ferguson, 28624, are determined by a complex interplay of factors. This analysis provides a framework for understanding these factors and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ferguson, 28624, including the location of practices, physician availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your care.