28715, Candler, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28715, Candler, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.47 percent of the residents in 28715 has some form of health insurance. 33.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 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 28715 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28715. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,528 health care providers accessible to residents in 28715, Candler, North Carolina.

The task is to create a hypothetical analysis.

**Lung Cancer Score: Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715) - A Hypothetical Analysis**

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare, particularly in the context of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715), examines primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to generate a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the overall preparedness of the local healthcare ecosystem to address this critical health concern. It is important to note that this analysis is hypothetical, based on available public data and reasonable assumptions.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Candler, assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, the patient-to-physician ratio, and the types of practices available (e.g., solo practices, group practices, hospital-affiliated clinics). A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of PCPs, generally translates to better access. However, even with a favorable ratio, factors like appointment wait times and insurance acceptance policies significantly impact access. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics can also supplement primary care, providing alternative avenues for initial assessment and symptom management.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This encompasses the PCPs' knowledge of lung cancer risk factors, their willingness to order appropriate screening tests (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and their ability to coordinate care with specialists. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on cancer screening and prevention, would score favorably. Furthermore, the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists is a key indicator of a well-coordinated healthcare system.

To gauge the "Lung Cancer Score," we must examine the characteristics of the medical practices within Candler and the surrounding areas. Standout practices would demonstrate a commitment to patient education regarding lung cancer risks and symptoms. They would actively promote smoking cessation programs and offer resources to help patients quit. Practices that have integrated smoking cessation counseling into routine checkups would be highly valued. The availability of on-site or readily accessible diagnostic services, such as X-ray or CT scan capabilities, would streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient outcomes. The presence of a dedicated nurse navigator or care coordinator to guide patients through the complex healthcare system would be a significant asset.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Candler. The availability of telemedicine options for primary care visits, specialist consultations, and follow-up appointments is beneficial. Practices that utilize telehealth platforms to deliver smoking cessation counseling or provide educational materials on lung cancer would be considered more prepared to address the needs of their patients. This includes the availability of virtual support groups and online resources.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within the Candler area is essential. Practices that have integrated mental health screening into their routine care or have established partnerships with mental health providers would be viewed favorably. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide invaluable emotional support for patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would incorporate all these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to address lung cancer, characterized by accessible primary care, knowledgeable physicians, advanced diagnostic capabilities, robust telemedicine options, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would suggest deficiencies in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poorer patient outcomes. The score would be a composite, weighted based on the relative importance of each factor. For instance, physician-to-patient ratio and access to screening would likely be weighted more heavily than the availability of virtual support groups.

The hypothetical analysis would also consider the proximity of Candler to larger medical centers and cancer treatment facilities. While Candler may have limited resources, its proximity to Asheville, with its hospitals and specialized cancer centers, could partially offset these limitations. The availability of transportation options for patients needing to travel for treatment is also a critical consideration. The analysis would factor in the presence of support services, such as patient navigators and financial assistance programs, offered by these larger facilities.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for Candler, NC (ZIP Code 28715) requires a thorough assessment of the local healthcare landscape. The analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This hypothetical evaluation highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in a rural setting.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Candler and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that provide valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution.