28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.66 percent of the residents in 28720 has some form of health insurance. 34.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.23 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 28720 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28720. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,538 health care providers accessible to residents in 28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Chimney Rock, NC (ZIP Code 28720)

Analyzing healthcare resources within ZIP code 28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina, requires a nuanced approach. We must consider the specific challenges of a rural area, including limited physician availability and access to specialized care, particularly concerning a serious disease like lung cancer. This analysis will delve into the available primary care landscape, assess physician-to-patient ratios, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components in determining a "Lung Cancer Score" for this community.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care plan rests on strong primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. Within Chimney Rock, understanding the availability and accessibility of PCPs is critical. The geographical isolation of the area, coupled with potential limitations in transportation, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care. This necessitates an assessment of the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services they offer (including preventative screenings), and their acceptance of various insurance plans.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 28720 requires gathering data on the total population of the area and the number of practicing PCPs. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide the necessary information. Any analysis must account for the fact that patients may seek care outside of their immediate ZIP code, influencing the perceived availability of care.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are the clinics or individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, patient education, and proactive screening for lung cancer. Factors that contribute to a practice's excellence include: the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., X-ray machines), adherence to national screening guidelines, a patient-centered approach, and a strong referral network for specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and physician profiles can help identify these high-performing practices within and near Chimney Rock.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in 28720 involves examining whether local PCPs offer virtual consultations, whether they utilize remote monitoring technologies, and whether they have established partnerships with specialists in larger medical centers. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a significant factor in determining the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. Access to mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive care. Patients and their families often require support to cope with anxiety, depression, and the challenges of treatment. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in 28720 involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups. Assessing whether PCPs routinely screen patients for mental health issues and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals is also critical.

Creating a "Lung Cancer Score" for Chimney Rock requires combining these factors. A scoring system could assign points based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor would be weighted according to its importance in the overall care pathway. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio might negatively impact the score, while the presence of a practice offering comprehensive screening and telemedicine options would positively influence it. The final score would then provide a comparative measure of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer.

Several challenges complicate this analysis. Data on physician availability and practice characteristics may be fragmented and difficult to obtain. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with practices opening, closing, and changing their services, necessitates ongoing monitoring. Furthermore, the specific needs of the population, including age distribution, socioeconomic status, and health literacy, must be considered to provide a truly accurate assessment.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Chimney Rock, NC (28720), is essential for evaluating its readiness to address lung cancer. By carefully assessing physician availability, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" can be developed. This score can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for increased resources and support for the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Chimney Rock and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, physician availability, and population demographics, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools offer a powerful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the community.