28666, Icard, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28666, Icard, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28666 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.89 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 28666 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 28666. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 60 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,901 health care providers accessible to residents in 28666, Icard, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28666 & Icard Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28666, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in the adjacent community of Icard, North Carolina. The ultimate goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing patient support. This score, though not a formal metric, represents a qualitative understanding of the resources available to individuals at risk or facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Icard, the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. An area with a low physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per primary care doctor is high, can present challenges. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized care, including proactive discussions about risk factors, smoking cessation programs, and early detection strategies like low-dose CT scans.

The quality of primary care extends beyond physician availability. The integration of preventative care is vital. Does the primary care infrastructure in Icard actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible individuals, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors? Are there readily available resources for smoking cessation, such as counseling and medication assistance? The presence of these elements significantly impacts the overall “Lung Cancer Score.”

Within ZIP code 28666, the specific practices and their approaches to lung cancer care warrant examination. Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices might demonstrate excellence in several areas: a commitment to evidence-based guidelines for screening and diagnosis, a robust referral network to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons), and a patient-centered approach that emphasizes communication and support. The existence of dedicated nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly enhances the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists, can improve access to care, especially for individuals living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to mental health services, which are essential for patients coping with the emotional and psychological challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential. Are there readily accessible resources for patients, such as support groups, individual counseling, or access to psychiatric medication? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly boosts the “Lung Cancer Score.”

The referral network is another vital aspect. The effectiveness of a primary care practice is often judged by its ability to connect patients with specialists. A strong referral network, with established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care. The ease with which patients can access these specialists directly impacts their outcomes.

Specific factors within the practices themselves deserve scrutiny. Are the doctors board-certified in relevant specialties? Are they actively involved in continuing medical education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment? Do they participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies? The answers to these questions contribute to a practice's overall quality and, therefore, its impact on the “Lung Cancer Score.”

The role of community resources should not be overlooked. The presence of local cancer support organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, can provide valuable resources for patients and their families. These organizations often offer support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance. Their existence contributes to a more supportive environment for those affected by lung cancer.

The integration of technology extends beyond telemedicine. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better coordination of care, improved communication between providers, and easier access to patient information. The ability of practices to share patient data securely and efficiently is essential for effective care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the integration of preventative care, the availability of mental health resources, the strength of the referral network, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of nurse navigators, and the overall quality of the practices within ZIP code 28666 and the primary care landscape in Icard. It is a dynamic evaluation, subject to change based on improvements in access, quality, and the integration of new technologies and resources.

The ultimate goal is to create an environment where individuals at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer have access to the best possible care. This requires a collaborative effort between primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, community organizations, and the patients themselves. Continuous improvement in all these areas is crucial.

To visualize and explore the geographical distribution of these critical resources – the location of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and support services – we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.