28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 45.21 percent of the residents in 28733 has some form of health insurance. 24.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.21 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 28733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 28733, Fontana Dam, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fontana Dam, NC (ZIP Code 28733)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources within Fontana Dam, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28733), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, specifically primary care availability and related support services. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, offering a Lung Cancer Score assessment.

Fontana Dam, a remote community nestled within the Great Smoky Mountains, presents unique challenges to healthcare delivery. The sparse population density and geographical limitations impact access to medical professionals and specialized services. The analysis will consider these factors in evaluating the availability of resources crucial for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Regular check-ups, early detection through screening, and prompt referrals are essential. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 28733 is paramount. Due to the small population, even a limited number of primary care physicians can significantly impact access. Information on the number of practicing primary care physicians, including family doctors and internal medicine specialists, is vital. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates, will determine the ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, raises concerns about appointment availability, wait times, and the overall capacity to provide timely care.

Further investigation into the distribution of primary care practices is necessary. Are these practices concentrated in a specific area, potentially creating geographic barriers for some residents? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) in the area? These facilities often provide essential services to underserved populations, including those with limited financial resources or transportation options.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying any standout primary care practices within or serving ZIP code 28733 is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in patient care, early detection efforts, or patient education. Research into their operational models, screening protocols, and patient satisfaction scores is essential. Do they actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, following established guidelines? Do they have dedicated staff or programs focused on cancer prevention and early detection? Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear information about risk factors, symptoms, and screening options, contribute significantly to improved outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance:**

Telemedicine offers a vital solution for overcoming geographical barriers in a remote area like Fontana Dam. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. Are primary care practices utilizing telehealth platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring? Telemedicine can facilitate access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally.

Assessing the availability of remote monitoring tools, such as those used to track vital signs or manage chronic conditions, is also important. These technologies can empower patients to take a more active role in their care and improve communication with their healthcare providers. The presence of telemedicine infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity, is a prerequisite for successful implementation.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact:**

A lung cancer diagnosis carries a significant psychological burden. The emotional impact of the disease, including anxiety, depression, and fear, can affect a patient's overall well-being and their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health resources in Fontana Dam is a crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score.

Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, practicing in the area or providing services remotely? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families? Access to mental health support is essential for managing the emotional challenges associated with lung cancer and improving the patient's quality of life.

**Specialist Access and Referral Pathways:**

While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Evaluating the referral pathways from primary care physicians to specialists is important. Are there established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the region? Are there clear protocols for timely referrals and communication between providers? The proximity to specialized cancer centers, even if outside the immediate ZIP code, is a factor. The ease of access to these centers, considering transportation options and travel times, will be included in the score.

**Community Support and Resources:**

Beyond medical care, the availability of community support services can significantly impact the well-being of lung cancer patients. Assessing the presence of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and resources for financial assistance is important. These resources can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and information about navigating the healthcare system.

**Lung Cancer Score Considerations:**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 28733 will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer-related healthcare resources in the area. The score will not be a definitive judgment but a relative assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

**Conclusion:**

Fontana Dam, with its unique geographical characteristics, faces challenges in providing comprehensive healthcare services. The Lung Cancer Score analysis underscores the importance of robust primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and access to specialists. The score will offer a valuable perspective on the local healthcare landscape, informing residents and healthcare providers about areas for improvement.

**Take Action: Explore the Data with CartoChrome Maps:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Fontana Dam and explore the data behind this analysis? CartoChrome maps can provide interactive visualizations of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in your community.