28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.06 percent of the residents in 28626 has some form of health insurance. 34.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.44 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 28626 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 471 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28626. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 605 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,845 health care providers accessible to residents in 28626, Fleetwood, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fleetwood, NC (ZIP Code 28626)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28626, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, specifically considering primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through lung cancer. This information will be assessed to generate a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, providing a snapshot of the community's preparedness to address this critical health concern.

Fleetwood, North Carolina, is a rural community, and this geographic context significantly shapes the healthcare landscape. The challenges of rural healthcare, including limited access to specialists and resources, are likely to be pronounced in this area. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect these realities.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is the availability of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms and are vital in early detection through screening and referrals. In a rural area like Fleetwood, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis will need to consider the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP Code 28626 and the surrounding areas, along with the estimated population served. This data will be crucial in determining the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

The availability of primary care also extends beyond the number of physicians. It encompasses the accessibility of practices, including their hours of operation, acceptance of insurance plans, and the availability of same-day appointments for urgent needs. These factors directly impact a patient's ability to seek timely medical attention.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying practices within the area that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care is essential. This could involve practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, or offer patient navigation services to guide patients through the complexities of treatment. These standout practices, if any, will be highlighted, and their impact on the overall "Lung Cancer Score" will be assessed.

For example, a practice that actively encourages smoking cessation programs, a significant risk factor for lung cancer, would be viewed favorably. Similarly, practices that have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can enhance communication and coordination of care, contributing to a higher score. The presence of specialized clinics or partnerships with larger healthcare systems would also be considered.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key factor in the "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without the need for extensive travel.

The analysis will examine the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology used, and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Emotional Toll**

A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the area.

The analysis will consider the presence of mental health services specifically tailored to cancer patients, such as support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric care. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, either within primary care practices or through referrals to specialized providers, will be a significant factor in determining the score.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 28626**

Given the rural nature of Fleetwood, the analysis will place particular emphasis on the following:

* **Transportation:** The availability of transportation options for patients, especially those with mobility limitations, to access medical appointments and treatment centers.
* **Community Support:** The presence of local support groups, cancer support organizations, and community outreach programs.
* **Health Literacy:** Initiatives aimed at improving health literacy within the community, ensuring that patients have the knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions about their care.

**Generating the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in the context of lung cancer care. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and primary care access will likely carry a significant weight, while telemedicine adoption and mental health resources will also contribute substantially.

The score will be presented on a scale (e.g., 1-100), with a higher score indicating a more favorable healthcare environment for lung cancer patients. The score will be accompanied by a narrative summary, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Fleetwood and providing recommendations for improvement.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fleetwood, NC (ZIP Code 28626) will provide a valuable assessment of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer. The analysis will highlight areas where the healthcare system excels and identify areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of lung cancer in the area.

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