28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.16 percent of the residents in 28651 has some form of health insurance. 43.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 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 28651 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28651. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,460 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 672 health care providers accessible to residents in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina.

The task is to create a comprehensive analysis, avoiding lists and maintaining a specific keyword density, focusing on lung cancer care within the ZIP code 28651 and the primary care landscape of Millers Creek. This analysis will assess the quality of care, accessibility, and resources available to patients, culminating in a call to action for a mapping tool.

Millers Creek, North Carolina, nestled within the 28651 ZIP code, presents a unique environment for healthcare delivery. Understanding the availability and quality of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including primary care access, mental health support, and technological integration.

Assessing the landscape begins with evaluating physician-to-patient ratios. The overall population density in and around Millers Creek significantly influences the demand for healthcare services. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for conditions like lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. However, this metric alone doesn't tell the whole story. The specialty of the physicians is crucial. While a high ratio of general practitioners is beneficial, the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is paramount for comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis should delve into the specific specialties available within the area and their respective ratios.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care hinges on the infrastructure and resources available. Standout practices are those that offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to collaborate on patient care. This includes pulmonologists for diagnosis and staging, oncologists for treatment planning, radiation oncologists for targeted therapies, and thoracic surgeons for surgical interventions. The presence of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as high-resolution CT scanners and PET scanners, is also a critical factor. Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and patient navigators, can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital aspect to consider. In rural areas like Millers Creek, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and improved accessibility. The analysis should identify which practices are utilizing telemedicine platforms and the specific services they offer remotely.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients battling lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of this disease can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This includes offering on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, and access to support groups. The analysis should explore the availability of mental health resources within the practices and the broader community.

The primary care landscape in Millers Creek plays a significant role in early detection and prevention. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential signs of lung cancer, order appropriate screenings, and refer patients to specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, their awareness of lung cancer risk factors, and their referral patterns. The presence of smoking cessation programs within primary care practices is also an important factor, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

The evaluation of lung cancer care in 28651 should also consider the availability of clinical trials and research opportunities. Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in cancer care. The analysis should identify any practices or hospitals that are actively involved in clinical research and the types of trials they offer.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the affordability of care. The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial, including diagnostic tests, medications, surgery, and radiation therapy. The availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and patient advocacy resources is crucial for ensuring that patients can access the care they need without facing undue financial burden. The analysis should investigate the availability of these resources within the community.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care in the 28651 ZIP code and the primary care availability in Millers Creek are determined by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialist physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of financial assistance programs all contribute to the overall quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, innovation, and accessibility are the ones that will provide the best outcomes for patients battling lung cancer.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Millers Creek and the surrounding areas, including the specific locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare resources available, allowing you to easily identify and compare different options.