28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.65 percent of the residents in 28739 has some form of health insurance. 44.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 28739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,836 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,970 health care providers accessible to residents in 28739, Hendersonville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare Resources in Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28739)

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28739 (Hendersonville, NC), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. We will evaluate primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive lung cancer care pathway. This analysis aims to provide an understanding of the resources available to individuals in the area and identify potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Evaluating the availability of PCPs in Hendersonville is therefore critical. While specific physician counts fluctuate, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a valuable metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and potentially more personalized care. Researching the current ratio for Hendersonville, ideally comparing it to state and national averages, is essential to gauge the overall accessibility of primary care. This data should also consider the acceptance of new patients by each practice.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and scope of primary care services are crucial. Does the local healthcare infrastructure include practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history)? Are these practices equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, or do they rely on referrals to specialists? The presence of dedicated screening programs, adherence to established guidelines, and the utilization of advanced diagnostic technologies (e.g., low-dose CT scans) within primary care practices are key indicators of a proactive approach to lung cancer detection. Investigating the specific screening protocols used by the local practices, including their referral processes, is vital.

The presence of specialist care, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another crucial element. The concentration of these specialists in the Hendersonville area, and their proximity to primary care practices, impacts the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment. Analyzing the number of pulmonologists and oncologists practicing within or near ZIP Code 28739, and assessing their individual patient loads, is essential. Furthermore, understanding the types of treatment options available locally, including access to surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, is paramount. The availability of clinical trials is also a significant factor, as it provides patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence, innovation, and patient-centered care. Identifying these practices involves examining their reputation within the community, patient reviews, and their participation in professional organizations. Practices that have earned accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, often adhere to rigorous standards of care. Investigating the presence of such accredited facilities in the area is crucial. Moreover, assessing the practice's commitment to patient education, support groups, and survivorship programs can offer valuable insights into their holistic approach to care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, specialist appointments, and follow-up care can significantly improve access to healthcare. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption by practices in Hendersonville, including the types of services offered remotely and the ease of access to these services, is essential. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication between providers and patients.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Integrating mental health resources into the care pathway is therefore crucial. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients, is vital. Investigating the integration of these services within local healthcare practices, including the availability of on-site counseling or referrals to mental health providers, is crucial. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, and the availability of educational resources on coping with the emotional challenges of cancer are key indicators of a comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

Beyond the immediate medical needs, access to supportive services can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Evaluating the availability of resources such as palliative care, social work services, financial assistance programs, and transportation assistance is vital. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients and their families. Social workers can provide support and guidance on navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial resources, and addressing social and emotional needs. Financial assistance programs can help patients with the costs of treatment, medications, and other expenses. Transportation assistance can help patients get to and from appointments.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care resources in Hendersonville (ZIP Code 28739) requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating primary care availability, specialist access, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health and supportive services provides a holistic view of the healthcare landscape. This analysis highlights the importance of early detection, comprehensive treatment options, and patient-centered care in improving outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer. To further explore the spatial distribution of these resources and gain a visual understanding of their accessibility, consider using CartoChrome maps.