28689, Union Grove, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.31 percent of the residents in 28689 has some form of health insurance. 22.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.33 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 28689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28689. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,681 health care providers accessible to residents in 28689, Union Grove, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Union Grove, NC (ZIP Code 28689)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28689, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, evaluating factors that contribute to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care as it relates to lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and proactive primary care. In Union Grove, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and potentially, a later stage of diagnosis. Assessing the current ratio requires gathering data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and local healthcare networks. This data would then be compared against national averages and benchmarks to determine the relative strength of the local primary care infrastructure.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is crucial. Are the doctors concentrated in one area, leaving other parts of Union Grove underserved? Are there enough family medicine specialists, internists, and pulmonologists to meet the diverse needs of the population? The availability of these specialists directly impacts the ability to provide timely diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. A shortage of pulmonologists, in particular, can lead to delays in referrals for diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopies and chest CT scans.

Identifying standout practices within the area is a key aspect of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, such as implementing robust screening programs for high-risk individuals, should be highlighted. These programs often involve educating patients about the importance of regular checkups, providing access to low-dose CT scans for eligible individuals, and establishing efficient referral pathways to specialists. Moreover, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can streamline patient care, improving communication between providers and ensuring continuity of treatment.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine within Union Grove's primary care practices needs to be examined. Are physicians utilizing virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment, reducing the need for frequent travel and providing convenient access to medical advice and support. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a crucial component of this analysis.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in their overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, evaluating the availability of mental health resources within Union Grove is essential. Are primary care practices integrated with mental health providers? Are there local support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals battling lung cancer.

The quality of care extends beyond the availability of physicians and resources. It also encompasses the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as the responsiveness of the medical staff, the clarity of communication, and the level of patient education provided. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, actively involving patients in their treatment decisions and providing them with the information they need to make informed choices, tend to achieve better outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the integration of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, regardless of the stage of the disease. Access to palliative care can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients, helping them manage pain, nausea, and other side effects of treatment.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in Union Grove, NC, requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. This includes the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of patient care. By understanding these elements, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The goal is to ensure that residents of Union Grove have access to the best possible care, leading to earlier detection, more effective treatment, and improved outcomes for those affected by lung cancer.

This analysis underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare. Understanding the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes. The insights gained from this analysis can be used to inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and empower patients to make informed choices about their care. This type of detailed analysis is invaluable in identifying areas where the healthcare system can be strengthened to better serve the community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within Union Grove and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, population demographics, and other critical factors.