28650, Maiden, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28650, Maiden, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.69 percent of the residents in 28650 has some form of health insurance. 36.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.76 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 28650 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,830 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28650. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 28650, Maiden, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Maiden, NC (ZIP Code 28650)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 28650, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We consider physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supportive services, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of healthcare resources in Maiden, North Carolina.

Maiden, a small town in Catawba County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians is a crucial starting point. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A lower ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatment for conditions like lung cancer. Data on this ratio, ideally broken down by age group and insurance type, would be essential for a truly accurate score. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide some initial estimates, but more granular data, often obtained through direct surveys or collaborations with local healthcare providers, is needed for a comprehensive assessment.

Standout practices within Maiden warrant specific attention. Identifying practices with a demonstrable commitment to preventative care, including robust lung cancer screening programs, is paramount. These programs typically involve low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers. The availability of these screening programs, along with clear protocols for patient education and follow-up, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Practices demonstrating proactive outreach to at-risk populations, perhaps through community health initiatives or targeted patient communication, receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, prescription refills, and mental health support, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms effectively, and demonstrating patient satisfaction with these services, contribute positively to the score. The ease of access to specialists through telemedicine is particularly relevant for lung cancer patients, who often require consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, and provide referrals to appropriate resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance is also important. While Maiden may not have a dedicated cancer center, access to such facilities in nearby cities like Charlotte or Winston-Salem is crucial. The score considers the travel time and ease of access to these centers, including transportation options and the availability of support services for patients and their families. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and palliative care specialists, is a positive indicator.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems that are integrated with other healthcare providers and hospitals receive higher marks. This is particularly relevant for lung cancer patients, who often require care from multiple specialists.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score should consider the availability of patient education materials. Clear, concise, and culturally sensitive materials about lung cancer risk factors, screening options, treatment modalities, and support services are essential. Practices that provide these materials in multiple languages, and offer patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, are highly valued.

Finally, the overall patient experience is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling appointments, the responsiveness of the practice staff, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Patient feedback, obtained through surveys and other means, is essential for assessing the quality of care provided by each practice. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care and actively seek to improve the patient experience receive higher marks.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in ZIP code 28650 requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates a detailed examination of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialized care, the use of EHRs, patient education materials, and the overall patient experience. A comprehensive assessment, incorporating data from multiple sources and considering the unique healthcare landscape of Maiden, NC, is crucial for providing an accurate and meaningful evaluation.

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