28643, Lansing, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28643, Lansing, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.95 percent of the residents in 28643 has some form of health insurance. 42.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.62 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 28643 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28643. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 949 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 116 health care providers accessible to residents in 28643, Lansing, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lansing, NC (ZIP Code 28643)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28643, focusing on physician availability, primary care resources, and related support systems. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and patient well-being. The analysis will emphasize the specific context of Lansing, North Carolina, and its unique challenges and opportunities.

The foundation of any robust lung cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. In Lansing, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical gateway. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings or to address concerning symptoms. Conversely, a sufficient number of PCPs, ideally with a strong understanding of lung cancer risk factors and early detection strategies, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the system, leading to longer wait times and potentially reduced access to preventative care. The analysis will consider the current PCP-to-patient ratio in Lansing, comparing it to both state and national averages to assess the relative accessibility of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and capabilities of primary care practices are essential. Are PCPs in Lansing equipped to conduct or readily facilitate lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the presence of these crucial elements within the primary care infrastructure. Furthermore, the analysis will look at the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), which can streamline communication between different healthcare providers and improve care coordination.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The presence of pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to Lansing residents, considering travel times and the availability of appointments. The analysis will also consider the capacity of local hospitals and clinics to provide comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of specialized nurses, respiratory therapists, and other support staff will also be factored into the score.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Lansing. The analysis will examine the adoption of telemedicine services by local healthcare providers. Are virtual consultations available for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or remote monitoring? Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in remote areas. The Lung Cancer Score will give higher marks to practices that have embraced telemedicine as a tool to enhance patient access and convenience.

The emotional and psychological well-being of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of their overall care. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the availability of mental health resources for patients in Lansing. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients? Are support groups available, providing a forum for patients to share their experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges? Access to mental health services can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of their disease.

The presence of ancillary services, such as smoking cessation programs, is also essential. Lung cancer is often associated with smoking, and providing resources to help patients quit smoking is a vital part of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of smoking cessation programs and their accessibility to residents of Lansing. This could include individual counseling, group therapy, and access to medications that aid in quitting.

Standout practices within the Lansing area will be identified, highlighting those that demonstrate exemplary care. These practices may have a strong focus on early detection, patient education, or comprehensive treatment options. They may also have a demonstrated commitment to patient satisfaction and positive outcomes. The analysis will use available data, including patient reviews and performance metrics, to identify these standout practices and to showcase best practices within the community.

The analysis will consider the presence of patient navigation services. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their journey. They can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and accessing financial assistance. The Lung Cancer Score will recognize the value of patient navigation services in improving patient experience and outcomes.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall community support network available to lung cancer patients. This includes the presence of local cancer support organizations, advocacy groups, and other resources that can provide information, support, and assistance to patients and their families. A strong community support network can play a vital role in helping patients cope with their disease and improve their quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lansing, NC (ZIP code 28643) will be a composite assessment based on the factors outlined above. It will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing lung cancer care, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders, helping them to understand the current state of lung cancer care in Lansing and to identify opportunities for improvement.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide a visual representation of the data analyzed here, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lansing and surrounding areas.