28702, Almond, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28702, Almond, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.22 percent of the residents in 28702 has some form of health insurance. 28.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.33 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 28702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 28702, Almond, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28702 & Primary Care in Almond

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 28702, encompassing the Almond community, with a focus on primary care physician (PCP) availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of supportive resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis or at risk within this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection and prompt referral. This begins with accessible and robust primary care. In Almond, understanding the availability of PCPs is paramount. The analysis will delve into the number of practicing PCPs within the defined area, considering both general practitioners and internal medicine specialists. This data will be compared against the estimated population of Almond to derive a physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly hinder access to timely screenings, diagnosis, and ultimately, treatment. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a greater likelihood of patients securing appointments and receiving preventative care.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis will scrutinize the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they actively participate in preventative care initiatives, such as promoting smoking cessation programs and offering lung cancer screening recommendations to eligible individuals? These factors are crucial in assessing the quality and responsiveness of primary care within Almond.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the adoption of telemedicine within these practices. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and enhance access to care, especially for those in rural communities. The presence and utilization of telemedicine platforms can significantly impact the ability of patients to receive timely consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support, all of which are critical components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The availability of specialized care, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. While this analysis primarily focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of specialists are essential for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The analysis will identify the nearest specialists, their referral networks, and the estimated travel time for patients in Almond. This information will provide a broader picture of the overall care continuum available to individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of lung cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be immense. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health resources within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, or the ease of referral to external providers, will be evaluated. This will help determine the level of support available to patients navigating the emotional challenges associated with lung cancer.

The analysis will also identify any standout practices within ZIP Code 28702. This may include practices that demonstrate exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to lung cancer screening and prevention, or a strong commitment to community outreach. Identifying these practices can serve as a benchmark for others and highlight best practices within the region.

The physician-to-patient ratio will be calculated based on publicly available data, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and physician directories. This will be supplemented by data from healthcare providers and local health organizations. The analysis will strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information possible, but it is important to note that healthcare landscapes are dynamic and subject to change.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" will be a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It will not be a numerical score, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in ZIP Code 28702, as it relates to lung cancer care. The score will consider the availability of PCPs, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of specialized care, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis will also consider the role of community health initiatives and public health programs in promoting lung cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection. This includes examining the presence of smoking cessation programs, lung cancer screening campaigns, and educational resources available to the public. These initiatives can play a crucial role in improving outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The final assessment will offer insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the Almond community in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. It will highlight areas where improvements are needed and identify potential strategies for enhancing access to care and improving patient outcomes. This analysis is designed to be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders in their efforts to address the challenges of lung cancer within ZIP Code 28702.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the impact on access to care within Almond and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant information.