28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.18 percent of the residents in 28671 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.69 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 28671 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 25 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28671. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,873 health care providers accessible to residents in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671)

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28671), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This information aims to provide a general overview and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. In Rutherford College, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial determinant of early detection. Regular check-ups with a PCP are essential for identifying potential symptoms and facilitating timely screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The density of PCPs within the ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, directly impacts the ease with which residents can access this vital initial point of contact. A low density can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delay diagnosis.

Physician-to-patient ratios offer another critical metric. This ratio reflects the number of PCPs available to serve the population. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, leading to increased patient loads for individual doctors. This can impact the time available for thorough patient evaluations, potentially affecting the ability to provide comprehensive care and dedicate sufficient attention to lung cancer risk assessment and early detection strategies. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a significant factor, especially for those needing further diagnosis and treatment.

Within Rutherford College, identifying standout practices can illuminate best practices and provide insights into the quality of care available. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection protocols are particularly valuable. These practices often have established relationships with local hospitals and specialists, ensuring seamless referrals and coordinated care for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. Examining the patient reviews, the presence of specialized equipment, and the adoption of evidence-based practices are all crucial in evaluating these practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those who need to consult with specialists who are not readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine integration within the practices in Rutherford College can influence the overall accessibility of care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive patient care. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices or readily available referrals to external providers are essential for providing holistic support.

Assessing the lung cancer score for Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671) involves a complex interplay of these factors. The analysis requires a comprehensive evaluation of the current healthcare infrastructure, including the number of PCPs, specialist availability, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with readily accessible primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices that prioritize early detection and comprehensive care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

The specific details regarding the availability of PCPs, specialist presence, and the adoption of telemedicine can be obtained through a detailed analysis of local healthcare directories, insurance provider networks, and hospital websites. Evaluating the patient reviews and the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines can further refine the assessment. The presence of mental health services can be evaluated through a review of local mental health provider listings and partnerships with primary care practices.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College is crucial for residents and healthcare providers alike. The information gleaned from this analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for better resources, and ensure that individuals have access to the best possible care. The information can also be used to inform decisions about healthcare choices and to support the development of community-based initiatives that promote early detection and improve patient outcomes.

For a more detailed and visually insightful analysis of the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College, including geographic visualizations of physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geospatial data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.