28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.54 percent of the residents in 28627 has some form of health insurance. 50.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.88 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 28627 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28627. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 316 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 879 health care providers accessible to residents in 28627, Glade Valley, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Glade Valley, NC (ZIP Code 28627)

Analyzing the availability of resources for lung cancer care in Glade Valley, North Carolina (ZIP code 28627) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the landscape of healthcare providers, access to primary care, and supporting services, ultimately painting a picture of the community's preparedness to address this serious disease. The score isn't a singular number, but rather a composite understanding based on several key factors.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt treatment. This necessitates a strong foundation of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio within Glade Valley and the surrounding areas is a critical metric. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Researching the exact ratio in 28627, and comparing it to both state and national averages, is the first step. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Department of Health & Human Services can help determine the current state of primary care availability.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs is crucial. Are they concentrated in one area, leaving other parts of Glade Valley underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers that offer care to low-income or uninsured individuals? Identifying these access points is essential to understanding the overall healthcare landscape.

Next, the analysis delves into the practices themselves. Are any primary care practices in the area recognized for their proactive approach to lung cancer screening? This could involve actively promoting screening guidelines, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to identify at-risk patients, and having established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Identifying these "standout practices" and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other providers.

The adoption of telemedicine is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas like Glade Valley. Are PCPs utilizing telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telehealth can improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area. Assessing the availability of telehealth services and the willingness of local providers to embrace this technology is a key component of the score.

Beyond medical care, the analysis considers the availability of supportive services. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. The presence of these resources within Glade Valley or nearby communities is a factor. The analysis will seek to determine the proximity of mental health services, the types of support offered (individual therapy, group therapy, etc.), and the availability of resources specifically tailored to cancer patients.

Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the availability of other supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. The score will consider the presence of these programs, their accessibility, and their effectiveness.

The availability of transportation is another important consideration. Patients undergoing cancer treatment often require frequent visits to specialists and treatment centers. If transportation options are limited, this can create a significant barrier to care. The analysis will assess the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and other transportation assistance programs for patients in Glade Valley.

The presence of a local hospital or cancer center is a major advantage. A hospital with a dedicated oncology department, offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other cancer treatments, significantly improves the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis will determine the proximity of such facilities to Glade Valley and assess the quality of care provided.

The analysis will also consider the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, such as lung cancer. It provides symptom management, emotional support, and assistance with navigating the healthcare system. The presence of palliative care services in Glade Valley or the surrounding area is a positive factor.

The assessment will also consider community outreach and education efforts. Are there any local organizations or healthcare providers actively involved in educating the community about lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment? Public awareness campaigns and educational programs can play a crucial role in improving outcomes.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is, therefore, a complex assessment. The final analysis will synthesize all of these factors to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to lung cancer patients in Glade Valley (28627). This analysis will not provide a single numerical score, but rather a detailed narrative, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the quality of lung cancer care in the area.

This data, visualized through interactive maps, can provide a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access.
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