28714, Burnsville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28714, Burnsville, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.51 percent of the residents in 28714 has some form of health insurance. 45.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.49 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 28714 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,409 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28714. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,265 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,354 health care providers accessible to residents in 28714, Burnsville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Burnsville, NC (ZIP Code 28714)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Burnsville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28714) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. A "Lung Cancer Score" for this area would encompass various elements, from physician availability to access to mental health resources, all impacting patient outcomes. This analysis delves into these key areas, offering a nuanced perspective on the healthcare ecosystem in Burnsville.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Burnsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. While precise figures fluctuate, a review of publicly available data suggests a potential shortage of PCPs in this rural area. This scarcity can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, impacting appointment wait times and the ability of patients to receive timely preventative care, including screenings for lung cancer.

Standout practices within Burnsville and the surrounding areas play a crucial role in mitigating potential shortages. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including proactive screening programs and patient education. Identifying these practices involves assessing their adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, their integration of patient navigation services, and their commitment to community outreach. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and offer convenient access to diagnostic imaging, such as low-dose CT scans, would receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Burnsville's rural setting presents unique challenges in terms of geographical access to specialists. Telemedicine offers a vital bridge, allowing patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists without the need for extensive travel. The extent to which practices in Burnsville have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that actively utilize telehealth platforms to connect patients with specialists and provide ongoing support would be considered more favorably.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with lung cancer is often overlooked, but it is an essential component of holistic care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can trigger a range of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore critical. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the accessibility of these resources within Burnsville and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should factor in the availability of specialized cancer care. While Burnsville might not have a dedicated oncology center, access to nearby facilities that offer advanced treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, is essential. The proximity to these facilities, the quality of care provided, and the ease of transportation for patients are all important considerations. The score would reflect the ability of patients in Burnsville to access comprehensive cancer care, including surgical options, in a timely manner.

Beyond direct medical care, the "Lung Cancer Score" should also consider the social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and housing stability, can significantly impact patient outcomes. In Burnsville, understanding the prevalence of these factors and the availability of community resources to address them is crucial. The score would reflect the extent to which healthcare providers and community organizations are working to address these underlying issues.

Evaluating the “Lung Cancer Score” for Burnsville requires a comprehensive data collection process. This includes gathering information from local healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies. Analyzing data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, the availability of mental health resources, and access to specialized cancer care is essential. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time.

The assessment of primary care availability in Burnsville is a critical component of the overall analysis. The ability of patients to access timely and appropriate primary care is the cornerstone of preventative care, including lung cancer screening. The "Lung Cancer Score" would reflect the accessibility of primary care services, considering factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices that prioritize patient access and offer comprehensive primary care services would receive higher marks.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be used to inform strategic planning and resource allocation. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the score can help healthcare providers and community organizations prioritize efforts to improve patient outcomes. This includes focusing on increasing the availability of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing access to mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that supports patients diagnosed with lung cancer, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.

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