28725, Dillsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28725, Dillsboro, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.13 percent of the residents in 28725 has some form of health insurance. 33.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.72 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 28725 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28725. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,035 health care providers accessible to residents in 28725, Dillsboro, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Dillsboro, NC (ZIP Code 28725)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Dillsboro, North Carolina, specifically focusing on lung cancer care and primary care availability, reveals a complex picture. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for patient outcomes, and ultimately, informing residents about the quality and accessibility of care within ZIP code 28725. The core of this analysis is not to provide a numerical score but to assess the availability of resources and the potential impact on lung cancer patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Dillsboro, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and management of lung cancer. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to primary care, which is vital for identifying symptoms, ordering necessary tests, and referring patients to specialists. Data on the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within 28725 is essential. Local and state health department reports, along with data from organizations like the American Medical Association, would be the primary sources for this critical information.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices plays a significant role. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including promoting smoking cessation programs, offering regular lung cancer screenings (especially for high-risk individuals), and providing comprehensive patient education. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for better coordination of care and improved communication between physicians and patients. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., NCQA), and whether they are affiliated with larger healthcare systems that have established protocols for cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Dillsboro. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer patients, including remote consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and therapists, can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices and specialists offer these services, the types of services available (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients (e.g., availability of technology, insurance coverage).

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Dillsboro involves identifying mental health providers who accept patients with lung cancer, assessing the availability of support groups, and determining whether these resources are integrated into the overall cancer care plan. The presence of social workers within the primary care practices and cancer care centers is a positive indicator.

The presence of a cancer center or oncology practice in or near Dillsboro is another crucial factor. These centers offer specialized care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The proximity of such a center significantly impacts patient outcomes, reducing the need for lengthy travel for treatment and follow-up appointments. Furthermore, the availability of palliative care services is essential for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer. Assessing the availability of these services involves identifying the nearest cancer centers, evaluating their services, and assessing the availability of palliative care specialists and programs.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Dillsboro, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment. It reflects the interplay of all the factors discussed above: physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized cancer care services. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and accessible lung cancer care, while a low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis requires a detailed investigation of the local healthcare landscape. This involves gathering data from various sources, including local hospitals, primary care practices, cancer centers, mental health providers, and public health agencies. It also involves reviewing patient reviews, accreditation status, and other relevant information. The data needs to be collected and analyzed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of healthcare in Dillsboro.

The specific challenges and opportunities within 28725 should be identified. This involves understanding the demographics of the population, the prevalence of lung cancer, and the specific needs of the community. Addressing these challenges and capitalizing on opportunities requires a collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of care and outcomes for lung cancer patients in Dillsboro.

The information gathered and the analysis performed are crucial for individuals seeking healthcare in Dillsboro. This information allows them to make informed decisions about their care. It also empowers them to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment, patients can actively participate in their own care and work towards better outcomes.

The information gathered in this analysis can be visualized and explored using advanced mapping tools. These tools can integrate healthcare data with demographic information, geographic features, and other relevant data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This can help to identify areas where resources are lacking and to prioritize efforts to improve access to care.

Are you interested in visualizing this healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dillsboro and surrounding areas? Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps.