28670, Ronda, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.83 percent of the residents in 28670 has some form of health insurance. 36.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.95 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 28670 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 698 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28670. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 492 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,072 health care providers accessible to residents in 28670, Ronda, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ronda, NC (ZIP Code 28670)**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Ronda, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28670), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical components in patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents and identify areas for potential improvement.

Ronda, a small town in Wilkes County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical services. Understanding the specifics of the local healthcare infrastructure is crucial for residents and healthcare providers alike.

**Primary Care Availability in Ronda**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Regular check-ups, early detection screenings, and coordinated referrals are all facilitated by a robust primary care network. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is therefore paramount.

Determining the exact number of PCPs practicing within the 28670 ZIP code requires a detailed investigation. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the North Carolina Medical Board, can provide this information. However, the number alone is not sufficient. The patient-to-physician ratio is a more telling metric.

A high patient-to-physician ratio suggests a potential strain on resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates better access and the possibility of more personalized care. The ideal ratio varies, but generally, a lower number is preferable.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care offered is also important. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, or a combination? The presence of diverse primary care options can cater to a wider range of patient needs.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

Calculating the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Ronda requires data from multiple sources, including census data and physician directories. This ratio offers a snapshot of the availability of medical professionals relative to the population size.

A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can pose significant challenges. Patients may face difficulties securing timely appointments, and the existing healthcare providers may experience increased workloads. This can impact the quality of care and potentially delay crucial diagnoses or treatments.

Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care. However, it's important to consider the distribution of physicians within the community. Even with a favorable ratio, if physicians are concentrated in specific areas, access may still be limited for residents in more remote locations.

**Standout Practices**

Identifying standout practices requires a qualitative assessment. This involves evaluating factors beyond the basic physician-to-patient ratio. Reputation, patient reviews, and the availability of specialized services are all important considerations.

Are there any practices in Ronda or nearby areas that are known for their excellence in primary care or early cancer detection? Do they have a strong track record of patient satisfaction? Do they offer advanced screening technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, which are crucial for lung cancer screening?

Furthermore, it's beneficial to identify practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or offer educational resources on lung cancer prevention and early detection. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.

Assessing the adoption of telemedicine in Ronda is crucial. Do local primary care practices offer virtual consultations? Are specialists in nearby cities or towns available via telemedicine platforms? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who are essential for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing physicians to track their progress and provide timely interventions. This can be particularly valuable for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

**Mental Health Resources**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive cancer care.

Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, available in Ronda or nearby areas? Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services? Are there support groups or counseling programs specifically for cancer patients?

The integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan is critical for supporting patients' well-being and improving their quality of life. This can involve providing access to therapists, support groups, or other mental health resources.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Ronda, NC, reveals a complex interplay of factors that influence lung cancer care. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources all play a crucial role in patient outcomes.

While specific data points require further investigation, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. Identifying areas for improvement, such as increasing access to specialists, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support, can lead to better care for residents.

**Call to Action**

To gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ronda and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points. Visit CartoChrome today to see the data visualized and gain a deeper understanding of your local healthcare resources.