28717, Cashiers, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28717, Cashiers, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.67 percent of the residents in 28717 has some form of health insurance. 38.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.54 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 28717 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28717. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 428 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 938 health care providers accessible to residents in 28717, Cashiers, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28717 and Primary Care Availability in Cashiers, NC

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the doctors practicing within ZIP code 28717, encompassing the Cashiers, North Carolina area, and the availability of primary care physicians, a critical entry point for early detection and management of this disease. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, evaluates telemedicine adoption, and examines the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score."

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score rests on the accessibility of primary care. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer physicians relative to the population, presents a significant challenge. In a rural area like Cashiers, this ratio is likely a concern. A limited number of primary care physicians can translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, all of which negatively impact lung cancer outcomes. The ability to quickly access a primary care physician is crucial for early detection.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating best practices in lung cancer screening and management. Factors that contribute to a high score include the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, and a proactive approach to screening high-risk patients, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in continuing medical education and clinical trials demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of lung cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption offers a promising solution to the challenges of rural healthcare access. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly important for lung cancer care, where access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists is crucial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, receive a higher score. The ability to access specialist expertise without extensive travel can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on both patients and the healthcare system.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care is essential for patients navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of this disease.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with resources to quit smoking is a critical component of preventative care. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, receive a higher score. These programs can significantly increase a patient's chances of quitting smoking and reducing their risk of developing lung cancer.

Furthermore, the score considers the integration of patient education materials. Providing patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, screening guidelines, and treatment options empowers them to make informed decisions about their health. Practices that offer educational resources, such as brochures, online materials, and patient education classes, receive a higher score.

The availability of palliative care services is another important factor. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. For lung cancer patients, palliative care can improve quality of life by managing pain, nausea, and other symptoms. Practices that have access to palliative care services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external programs, receive a higher score.

The analysis also considers the quality of communication between physicians and patients. Clear and open communication is essential for building trust and ensuring that patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis. Practices that prioritize patient communication, including providing ample time for questions and concerns, receive a higher score.

Finally, the score considers the overall cost of care. The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial, and practices that are transparent about costs and work to make care more affordable receive a higher score. This includes offering financial assistance programs, working with insurance providers, and providing patients with information about their treatment costs.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 28717 and primary care availability in Cashiers requires a holistic approach. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and other factors. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness and to provide insights that can be used to improve access to high-quality lung cancer care in this rural community. Understanding these factors is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cashiers and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and data-driven visualization of healthcare data, allowing you to identify trends, assess access, and make informed decisions.