28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 28629 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28629 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28629. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,336 health care providers accessible to residents in 28629, Glendale Springs, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Glendale Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28629)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape of Glendale Springs, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28629), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and the availability of primary care services. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician accessibility, quality of care indicators, and supporting resources. This score is not a single number, but rather a composite of observations across several key areas.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management is early detection and consistent primary care. In Glendale Springs, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the overall health outcomes for residents. A critical aspect of this evaluation is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, a rural area like Glendale Springs often faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This can lead to a higher patient load per physician, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time a doctor can dedicate to each patient. Access to a PCP is crucial for routine screenings, such as chest X-rays and, when indicated, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are vital for detecting lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.

Standout practices within the 28629 ZIP code, or those serving its population, are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care, including preventive screenings. While specific practice names are difficult to pinpoint without proprietary data, a practice excelling in this area will likely have robust systems for patient outreach, reminders for screenings, and a well-coordinated approach to patient follow-up. They will also likely be integrated with local hospitals or specialty clinics for seamless referrals to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists when necessary. These practices may also be recognized for their patient satisfaction scores and positive reviews, which often reflect a patient-centered approach.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. The use of telehealth allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available in Glendale Springs. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the extent to which practices within the 28629 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them into their care delivery models. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ability to securely share patient information electronically.

Beyond the availability of physicians and technological advancements, the availability of mental health resources is a significant factor in the overall health of patients. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of mental health services in the area, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. This includes the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or the availability of referral pathways to mental health providers. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for supporting patients throughout their cancer journey.

Further, the effectiveness of lung cancer care is also influenced by the availability of support groups, patient education programs, and access to palliative care services. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Patient education programs empower patients to understand their disease, treatment options, and self-care strategies. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, addressing both physical and emotional needs. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability and accessibility of these supportive services within the 28629 ZIP code.

The quality of lung cancer care is also influenced by the presence of specialized medical facilities in the region. While Glendale Springs may not have a dedicated cancer center, its proximity to larger hospitals or medical centers with oncology departments is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" will take into account the availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, within a reasonable distance from Glendale Springs. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, is also a positive indicator of quality.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will also consider the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing resources to help patients quit smoking is a critical component of preventive care. The score will evaluate the availability of evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, within the 28629 ZIP code.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge that this analysis is based on available information and may not capture all aspects of the healthcare landscape in Glendale Springs. The actual "Lung Cancer Score" is a complex assessment that requires a comprehensive review of various data points. The goal is to provide a general overview of the key factors influencing lung cancer care and primary care availability in the area.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Glendale Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28629) and gain deeper insights into physician locations, practice specializations, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare professionals, and community planners.