28662, Pineola, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28662, Pineola, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 28662 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 28662 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28662. 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 835 health care providers accessible to residents in 28662, Pineola, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Pineola, NC (ZIP Code 28662) – A Primary Care Perspective

Evaluating the landscape of primary care in Pineola, North Carolina (ZIP code 28662) through the lens of lung cancer preparedness reveals a complex picture. While the area boasts natural beauty and a close-knit community, its healthcare infrastructure presents both strengths and areas needing improvement, especially considering the prevalence of lung cancer and the critical role of primary care in early detection and management. This analysis aims to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The fundamental building block of any healthcare system is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Pineola, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, being a rural community, likely faces a challenge in this regard. A lower physician-to-patient ratio (meaning fewer doctors for the population) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is particularly concerning for lung cancer, where early detection is paramount. A higher ratio, conversely, indicates greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and opportunities for screening, such as low-dose CT scans, for high-risk individuals. Assessing this ratio requires investigation into the number of active PCPs within the 28662 ZIP code and the corresponding population served. Public health data and local healthcare provider directories are key resources for this.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care practices is vital. Are the practices well-equipped to address lung cancer concerns? This involves evaluating several factors. Does the practice offer or readily refer patients for lung cancer screening, particularly for those with a history of smoking or other risk factors? Are they familiar with the latest guidelines for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment? Are they connected to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, for seamless referrals? Practices that prioritize preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and regular health screenings, are inherently better positioned to contribute to positive lung cancer outcomes. The presence of certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants also contributes to the overall capacity of a practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can be significant. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and access to mental health support. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. Investigating the prevalence of telehealth services among PCPs in 28662, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is essential for assessing the Lung Cancer Score.

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. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have strong referral networks for mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Assessing the availability of mental health support, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Pineola area is crucial. Does the practice screen for mental health issues? Do they offer counseling services on-site or have established referral pathways? These factors significantly impact the overall well-being of lung cancer patients and their families.

Identifying standout practices within the 28662 ZIP code is crucial. This involves recognizing those that excel in all the aforementioned areas. Practices that have a strong emphasis on preventive care, readily offer lung cancer screenings, embrace telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources are likely to achieve higher scores. Gathering patient reviews, analyzing practice websites, and consulting with local healthcare experts can help identify these standout practices. A practice that actively participates in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer and promote healthy lifestyles also merits recognition.

The Lung Cancer Score for Pineola (28662) is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment. It reflects the current state of primary care and its preparedness to address the challenges of lung cancer. The score can be improved by addressing the identified weaknesses. This could involve recruiting more PCPs, increasing telemedicine adoption, strengthening mental health resources, and promoting preventive care initiatives. Furthermore, collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community organizations is essential to create a robust and patient-centered healthcare system.

The overall assessment of primary care in Pineola for lung cancer preparedness is a nuanced one. The area likely faces challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and may need to enhance its telemedicine capabilities. However, the community’s close-knit nature may foster strong patient-provider relationships, which are crucial for successful cancer care. The availability of mental health resources requires close scrutiny, as does the extent of screening programs.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pineola and other areas, consider exploring the power of visualization. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying patterns, and gaining valuable insights. They can help visualize physician density, access to specialists, and the distribution of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare environment.