28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.93 percent of the residents in 28663 has some form of health insurance. 46.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.13 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 28663 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28663. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 28663, Piney Creek, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care resources within ZIP code 28663, specifically Piney Creek, North Carolina. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing lung cancer.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care, and indeed all healthcare, is access to qualified medical professionals. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio within a specific ZIP code provides a crucial metric for gauging the availability of care. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios at the ZIP code level are often difficult to ascertain publicly due to data privacy concerns and the dynamic nature of healthcare provider staffing. However, we can infer a general sense of availability by analyzing broader regional data and cross-referencing with information on the number of practicing physicians within the area.

Piney Creek, being a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. These include a potentially lower density of physicians, particularly specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists, compared to urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for patients seeking specialized care. Therefore, primary care physicians become even more vital in this setting. They act as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through the diagnostic process, coordinating care, and providing ongoing support.

The availability of primary care is inextricably linked to the overall health of a community. The presence of robust primary care services is directly correlated with early detection of diseases, improved management of chronic conditions, and better overall patient outcomes. In Piney Creek, the accessibility of primary care physicians, including family doctors and internal medicine specialists, is a critical factor in the early identification of potential lung cancer cases. Early detection is paramount, as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

The characteristics of individual medical practices within 28663 also play a crucial role. Some practices may stand out based on their commitment to patient-centered care, their adoption of advanced technologies, or their integration of supportive services. For example, a practice that actively participates in lung cancer screening programs, offers comprehensive diagnostic services, and provides access to patient navigators would be highly regarded. Similarly, a practice that collaborates closely with specialists in nearby cities or offers on-site chemotherapy services would be considered a valuable resource.

Telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its ability to bridge geographical barriers and connect patients with specialists remotely is a significant advantage. The adoption of telemedicine by medical practices in Piney Creek can have a profound impact on lung cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists without the need for extensive travel. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing for timely intervention and improved management of treatment side effects. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the practices in 28663 should be a key factor in evaluating the quality of care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical for patients navigating the complexities of their illness. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate these services into their care models are likely to provide a more holistic and supportive experience for their patients. The presence of these resources, either within the practice itself or through referral networks, is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Piney Creek requires considering the local landscape. Does the community have access to mental health professionals? Are there support groups or community programs available to help patients cope with the emotional burden of lung cancer? These are important questions to consider when evaluating the comprehensive care available in the area.

The presence of patient navigators is another factor that can greatly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators are trained professionals who guide patients through the healthcare system, helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and available resources. They can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, and navigating insurance complexities. Practices that employ patient navigators demonstrate a commitment to patient advocacy and a desire to provide a more seamless and supportive experience.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 28663, and particularly the primary care availability in Piney Creek, is a complex assessment. It depends on a combination of factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. While a definitive score is challenging to provide without specific, up-to-date data, the considerations outlined above provide a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care.

This analysis emphasizes the importance of early detection, comprehensive care, and patient support in the fight against lung cancer. It highlights the challenges faced by rural communities and the need for innovative solutions, such as telemedicine, to improve access to care. The availability of mental health resources and patient navigators is also crucial for providing a holistic and supportive patient experience.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Piney Creek and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare providers and the availability of services in your area.