28669, Roaring River, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.65 percent of the residents in 28669 has some form of health insurance. 35.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.49 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 28669 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 496 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28669. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,072 health care providers accessible to residents in 28669, Roaring River, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Roaring River, NC (ZIP Code 28669)

Roaring River, North Carolina, a small community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and, specifically, lung cancer care. This analysis aims to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care services within the 28669 ZIP code, with a focus on factors pertinent to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and support. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, assess standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), significantly improves survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio in Roaring River is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into the physician-to-population density within the 28669 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data, however, may need to be supplemented by local knowledge of physician retirement, relocation, and practice capacity.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening protocols. They may proactively reach out to eligible patients, educate them about the benefits of screening, and streamline the referral process for further diagnostic testing. Factors to consider include the practice’s adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., those established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force), the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities (e.g., X-ray or CT scan), and the practice’s integration with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Reviews from patients, as well as practice accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Roaring River. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations without the need for extensive travel. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to support groups. The availability of telehealth services within primary care practices in the 28669 ZIP code, as well as the accessibility of telehealth options through regional hospitals and specialty clinics, is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality of care. The technical infrastructure, including internet access and the availability of necessary equipment, also plays a significant role in the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often emotionally challenging experiences. The availability of mental health resources is therefore paramount. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. These professionals can provide support to patients and their families, helping them cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. The proximity of mental health services, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of specialized support groups (e.g., those focused on grief, smoking cessation, or cancer survivorship) are all critical considerations.

The effectiveness of lung cancer care is directly linked to the coordination of services. Primary care practices must work collaboratively with specialists, hospitals, and support organizations to ensure seamless transitions of care. This includes clear communication between providers, efficient scheduling of appointments, and the sharing of medical records. The presence of a robust referral network and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing can significantly improve the quality of care. The integration of community resources, such as cancer support groups, smoking cessation programs, and palliative care services, is also crucial for providing comprehensive support to patients.

Furthermore, the impact of socioeconomic factors on lung cancer outcomes cannot be ignored. Factors such as income, education, and access to transportation can influence a patient’s ability to access care, adhere to treatment plans, and receive necessary support. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach, including outreach programs, financial assistance, and culturally sensitive care. Primary care practices can play a vital role in identifying and addressing these social determinants of health, ensuring that all patients have an equal opportunity to receive the best possible care.

The assessment of lung cancer care in Roaring River must also consider the availability of local hospitals and specialty clinics. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists is essential for providing comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services. The proximity of these specialists, the quality of their services, and their willingness to collaborate with primary care practices are all critical factors. The availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as PET scans and advanced imaging technologies, also impacts the quality of care.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care availability in Roaring River, NC (28669) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, evaluating mental health resources, and considering the broader context of healthcare access and socioeconomic factors. While a definitive “Lung Cancer Score” is difficult to quantify without comprehensive data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements of care and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of healthcare access in Roaring River and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialist clinics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visual tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential gaps in care.