28748, Leicester, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28748, Leicester, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.52 percent of the residents in 28748 has some form of health insurance. 37.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.47 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 28748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,979 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,960 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,038 health care providers accessible to residents in 28748, Leicester, North Carolina.

The task is to assess the landscape of lung cancer care within the ZIP code 28748, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care physicians in Leicester, North Carolina. This analysis will evaluate factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of exemplary medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all through the lens of their impact on lung cancer patients.

Leicester, North Carolina, nestled within the 28748 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its relative isolation and rural character significantly influence access to care, making the availability of primary care physicians a critical determinant of early detection and treatment of lung cancer. The initial point of contact for many individuals experiencing symptoms is their primary care physician. A shortage of these physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and increased strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside national averages, must be consulted to establish a baseline for comparison. The analysis will explore the specific ratio within 28748 and compare it to both state and national standards. Any significant deviation from these benchmarks will be a crucial factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within the area is another key component of the evaluation. This involves researching medical facilities and practices known for their commitment to patient care, particularly those that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis will consider factors such as the availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., low-dose CT scans), the presence of certified lung cancer specialists, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Reviews from patients, as well as accolades from professional organizations, will be considered in identifying these exemplary practices.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and expand access to specialized care, including consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer management. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices in 28748 utilize telemedicine for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the need for travel, which is particularly important for individuals undergoing treatment.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and treatment adherence. The emotional burden of a cancer diagnosis, coupled with the physical side effects of treatment, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health resources within the 28748 area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, either within primary care practices or through referrals, is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite metric, weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant component, with a higher ratio negatively impacting the score. The presence of standout practices with advanced technologies and specialized expertise will positively influence the score. The adoption of telemedicine, particularly for specialist consultations and remote monitoring, will also contribute to a higher score. Finally, the availability and integration of mental health resources will be a crucial factor in determining the overall rating.

Specific data points will be gathered from a variety of sources. The North Carolina Medical Board will provide information on physician licensing and practice locations. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will offer data on healthcare utilization and quality metrics. Patient reviews and testimonials, available through online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, will provide insights into patient experiences and satisfaction. Local healthcare providers will be contacted to gather information on their services, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources.

The analysis will not only assess the current state of lung cancer care in 28748 but also identify areas for improvement. This may include recommendations for increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment that can be used to inform healthcare planning and improve patient outcomes.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be presented as a numerical rating, along with a detailed explanation of the methodology and the rationale behind the scoring. This score will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in the Leicester area.

The assessment will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Issues such as insurance coverage, transportation challenges, and health literacy will be examined to determine their influence on patient outcomes. The analysis will also explore the availability of financial assistance programs and other resources that can help patients overcome these barriers.

The evaluation will also consider the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans, which are crucial for early detection. The analysis will investigate the number of individuals screened, the rates of diagnosis, and the overall impact of screening on patient outcomes. The availability of smoking cessation programs will also be considered, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

The final report will be a comprehensive overview of the lung cancer care landscape in 28748. It will provide a valuable resource for individuals seeking information about healthcare options in the area. The report will be designed to be easily understood by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

This analysis, with its focus on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, aims to provide a clear and concise assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in Leicester, North Carolina. The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28748, including physician locations, practice boundaries, and the availability of resources, explore the power of spatial data with CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your care.