28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 28636 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.55 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 28636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,001 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina.

The task requires an analysis of lung cancer care quality for primary care physicians in Hiddenite, North Carolina (ZIP code 28636). The analysis should consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support.

Hiddenite, a small community nestled in Alexander County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Assessing the quality of lung cancer care necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the primary care landscape. This includes the availability of physicians, the resources they have at their disposal, and their approach to patient care, particularly in the context of early detection and management of lung cancer.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Hiddenite, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population will significantly influence the ability of residents to receive timely and adequate care. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of physicians for a large population, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially improved patient outcomes. Accurate data on physician-to-patient ratios in 28636 is crucial for a fair assessment. This data would be available from state medical boards, professional organizations, and healthcare data aggregators.

Identifying standout practices within Hiddenite is another essential component of the analysis. This involves examining practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in the area of lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and management. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening programs, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes should be recognized. These practices might employ innovative approaches to patient education, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, or have established strong referral networks with specialists in oncology and pulmonology. Information on standout practices could be gathered through patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Hiddenite. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving convenience. The extent to which primary care physicians in 28636 have embraced telemedicine should be considered. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine can potentially improve access to care for patients with lung cancer, particularly those in the early stages of diagnosis or those needing follow-up care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a significant emotional impact on patients and their families. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services within the Hiddenite area is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Primary care physicians play a vital role in identifying patients who may be struggling with mental health issues and referring them to appropriate resources. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Information on the availability of mental health services can be obtained from local health departments, community organizations, and mental health providers.

Analyzing lung cancer care quality also requires consideration of the specific challenges faced by the Hiddenite community. This may include factors such as the prevalence of smoking, the socioeconomic status of the population, and the availability of transportation. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that involves not only healthcare providers but also community organizations and public health initiatives. This could involve smoking cessation programs, educational campaigns on lung cancer prevention, and initiatives to improve access to healthcare for underserved populations.

A 'Lung Cancer Score' for doctors in 28636 would therefore be a complex metric. The score should not be a simplistic ranking but rather a nuanced assessment of the quality of care provided by primary care physicians in the area. It should consider the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score should also acknowledge the unique challenges and opportunities of the Hiddenite community.

The data required for such an analysis can be sourced from a variety of places. Physician directories, state medical boards, and healthcare data aggregators can provide information on physician-to-patient ratios. Patient reviews, peer recommendations, and publicly available data on quality metrics can help identify standout practices. Information on telemedicine adoption can be gathered through surveys, interviews, and practice websites. Local health departments, community organizations, and mental health providers can provide information on the availability of mental health resources.

The ultimate goal of the 'Lung Cancer Score' is to provide valuable information to patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This information can be used to improve the quality of lung cancer care in Hiddenite and to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. The score should be transparent, evidence-based, and regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. It should be used as a tool to drive improvement and to promote collaboration among healthcare providers and community stakeholders.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Hiddenite, NC, requires a comprehensive analysis of several factors. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources, a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape can be developed. This information can then be used to improve the quality of care and ensure that residents of Hiddenite have access to the resources they need to fight lung cancer.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and community demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools to gain insights into the healthcare landscape of Hiddenite and the surrounding areas.