28690, Valdese, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28690, Valdese, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.76 percent of the residents in 28690 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.26 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 28690 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,712 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28690. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28690, Valdese, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on lung cancer care within ZIP code 28690, Valdese, North Carolina, with a specific emphasis on primary care availability and related resources. This is a critical area to examine given the prevalence of lung cancer and the crucial role primary care physicians play in early detection, diagnosis, and patient management. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Valdese, nestled in Burke County, presents a unique healthcare environment. The area's demographics and socioeconomic factors likely influence healthcare access and outcomes. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians is the starting point. A low physician-to-patient ratio can severely limit access to timely screenings, diagnostic services, and ongoing care for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more robust system, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.

Evaluating the primary care landscape requires a deep dive into the practices within the ZIP code. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The size and structure of these practices directly impact patient capacity and the ability to handle the demands of lung cancer screening and treatment.

Standout practices are those that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This involves actively promoting screening guidelines, utilizing evidence-based diagnostic tools, and providing comprehensive patient education. Identifying these practices requires examining their patient outcomes, screening rates, and the availability of supportive services. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators, for example, can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure seamless care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, making it easier for patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health services. In rural areas like Valdese, telemedicine can be particularly valuable, reducing travel time and improving access to care for those who may face transportation challenges. The extent of telemedicine integration within primary care practices is a key indicator of their responsiveness to patient needs and their willingness to embrace innovative healthcare delivery models.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within the primary care setting or readily accessible through referrals is critical. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate these services into their care models are better equipped to support patients throughout their journey.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is also a critical consideration. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to them directly impact the speed and effectiveness of treatment. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is a hallmark of high-quality cancer care.

The analysis also considers the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are crucial for early lung cancer detection. The availability of these tools within the local healthcare system or through readily accessible referral networks is a significant factor in improving patient outcomes. Practices that actively promote LDCT screening for eligible patients demonstrate a commitment to early detection and intervention.

Furthermore, the analysis assesses the level of patient education and support services available. Practices that provide comprehensive educational materials, offer smoking cessation programs, and connect patients with support groups are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their care. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 28690 and primary care availability in Valdese is a composite measure that considers all these factors. It is not a simple ranking but a nuanced assessment that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of specialists and advanced diagnostic tools.

This analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Valdese, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers. It will highlight areas where the healthcare system excels and identify areas where improvements are needed. The ultimate goal is to promote better lung cancer care and improve patient outcomes.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Valdese and surrounding areas, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that allow you to explore healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.