28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.02 percent of the residents in 28746 has some form of health insurance. 55.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.63 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 28746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 453 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28746. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 868 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28746 and Primary Care Availability in Lake Lure

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 28746, encompassing Lake Lure, North Carolina, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive cancer care system.

The primary care landscape in Lake Lure, like many rural areas, presents both challenges and opportunities. One of the primary challenges is the potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. A lower ratio can also strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, impacting the ability to provide preventative care, including lung cancer screenings, and timely follow-up appointments.

While precise physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to ascertain without comprehensive data, publicly available information and local healthcare directories offer clues. Based on these resources, it appears that the area may be experiencing a shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage, in turn, underscores the importance of efficient resource allocation and innovative healthcare delivery models.

The quality of primary care practices is another vital consideration. A "standout practice" in this context would ideally possess several key attributes. First, it would emphasize preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals. This necessitates a robust patient outreach program and a clear understanding of risk factors such as smoking history, exposure to environmental toxins, and family history of lung cancer.

Second, a standout practice would integrate advanced diagnostic capabilities, either on-site or through readily accessible referrals. This includes access to chest X-rays, CT scans, and potentially bronchoscopy services. The ability to quickly and accurately diagnose potential lung cancer cases is paramount.

Third, the practice would prioritize patient education and support. This involves providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options. It also includes offering resources for smoking cessation and other lifestyle modifications that can reduce the risk of developing lung cancer.

Fourth, the practice would foster a strong relationship with oncology specialists and other healthcare providers. This collaborative approach ensures seamless transitions of care and access to the expertise needed for complex cases. This collaborative network is vital for navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care in a rural setting like Lake Lure. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. This is particularly important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments due to geographical limitations, mobility issues, or other health concerns.

The integration of telemedicine can also enhance the efficiency of the healthcare system by reducing the burden on physical clinic spaces and allowing physicians to see more patients remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Another crucial aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the availability of mental health resources. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey.

Ideally, primary care practices would have established relationships with mental health providers or offer on-site counseling services. This would enable patients to receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. The availability of support groups and other peer-to-peer resources is also highly valuable.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires careful investigation. This could involve contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing online directories, and examining community health initiatives. The goal is to determine the extent to which mental health services are integrated into the primary care system and accessible to patients.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 28746 and primary care availability in Lake Lure is complex and multifaceted. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The challenges of a rural healthcare environment are evident, but the potential for improvement through strategic planning, technological innovation, and community collaboration is substantial. The quality of care available is directly linked to the health of the community.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in your area, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape, helping you navigate the system and make informed decisions about your health.