28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.43 percent of the residents in 28711 has some form of health insurance. 44.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.55 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 28711 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28711. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 28711, Black Mountain, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Black Mountain, NC (ZIP Code 28711)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and related resources in Black Mountain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28711), with a particular focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, informing potential patients and highlighting areas for improvement. The analysis considers physician availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and the overall capacity to address the multifaceted needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A robust PCP network serves as the first line of defense, facilitating early detection through screening and providing ongoing care coordination. The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 28711 is a key indicator of access. A lower ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on this ratio, ideally sourced from reputable databases like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards, is essential. The analysis should also consider the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code, noting the presence of any underserved areas.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the Black Mountain area is vital. This requires evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores (gathered from sources like Healthgrades or Vitals), the adoption of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening and management, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer comprehensive patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection through screening protocols deserve recognition. The presence of affiliations with larger healthcare systems or cancer centers can also signify access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Black Mountain. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine is a crucial consideration. Telehealth capabilities can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing the burden of travel for patients and improving access to specialists. Practices that offer telehealth options for both primary care and specialized oncology services are particularly valuable. Assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., secure video conferencing, remote patient monitoring devices) and the availability of technical support for patients is also important.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological challenges. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the Black Mountain area. This includes assessing the number of providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of support groups, counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers are all positive indicators. Integrating mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis should also consider the availability of ancillary services that support lung cancer care. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (e.g., CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The proximity of these services to primary care practices and the ease of referral processes are important factors. The presence of a multidisciplinary team approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists, is a strong indicator of comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the social determinants of health that can impact lung cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can all influence a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. The analysis should identify any community-based programs or initiatives that address these factors, such as free or low-cost transportation services, patient navigation programs, and health education resources.

In the context of lung cancer, the early detection and treatment of the disease are critical. The analysis should assess the availability of lung cancer screening programs in the area. This includes the availability of low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, the adherence to screening guidelines, and the education of patients about the benefits of screening.

Overall, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for Black Mountain would incorporate the following factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care at standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to diagnostic and treatment services, and the consideration of social determinants of health. The score should be based on data from reliable sources and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

This analysis is intended to provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Black Mountain. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals seeking care should consult with their physicians to discuss their specific needs and concerns.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Black Mountain, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and ancillary services, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and informative way to understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care. Explore the CartoChrome maps today to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.