28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.37 percent of the residents in 28683 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.65 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 28683 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28683. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28683 and Thurmond, NC

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP code 28683, focusing specifically on the town of Thurmond, North Carolina. We will assess the landscape of primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support – all crucial factors impacting patient outcomes in the fight against lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on a strong primary care base. Early detection is critical, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Thurmond, as a small community, likely faces challenges regarding PCP availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can provide insights into this ratio. Furthermore, the age and experience of the PCPs within the area are important considerations. Experienced physicians may have a deeper understanding of lung cancer risk factors and diagnostic pathways.

Specialist availability is another vital component. Lung cancer treatment often requires the expertise of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Thurmond is a significant factor. Patients in rural areas often face the burden of traveling long distances for specialized care. This can create logistical challenges, increase stress, and potentially impact treatment adherence. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance would significantly improve the overall score. The availability of these specialists should be assessed, noting the number of specialists, their sub-specialties, and their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers.

Beyond physician availability, the adoption of technology plays a crucial role in modern healthcare. Telemedicine, in particular, offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to care. The adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs and specialists in the area should be evaluated. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. The analysis should assess the number of mental health professionals in the area, their specialties, and their willingness to work with cancer patients. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients or cancer survivors is a significant positive factor.

Standout practices within ZIP code 28683, if any, deserve special attention. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection initiatives, and innovative treatment approaches should be highlighted. This could include practices that actively screen high-risk patients, offer comprehensive support services, or participate in clinical trials. Identifying these exemplary practices can provide valuable insights and serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area.

The overall score for lung cancer care in Thurmond, NC, and ZIP code 28683 would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with ample physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. Conversely, a low score would suggest significant challenges, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes. The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation, as smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer.

The analysis should also consider the quality of care provided. This can be assessed by looking at the hospitals' accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores, and the use of evidence-based practices. The analysis should also consider the availability of patient navigation services, which can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system.

The analysis should be conducted with a focus on the specific needs of lung cancer patients. This means considering factors such as the availability of lung cancer screening programs, the use of advanced diagnostic techniques, and the availability of targeted therapies. The analysis should also consider the patient's perspective, taking into account factors such as the ease of access to care, the quality of communication with healthcare providers, and the overall patient experience.

The availability of transportation services is also a crucial factor, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. The analysis should assess the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and volunteer driver programs.

Ultimately, a comprehensive lung cancer score for Thurmond, NC, and ZIP code 28683 would provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions and improve the quality of lung cancer care in the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28683 and visualize the distribution of resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and specialist availability, we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients and healthcare professionals alike.