28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28749 has some form of health insurance. 61.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.57 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 28749 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28749. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,195 health care providers accessible to residents in 28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28749 & Primary Care in Little Switzerland

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP code 28749, specifically focusing on their impact on lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The analysis considers the unique challenges presented by the rural setting of Little Switzerland, North Carolina, and aims to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a numerical value, represents a qualitative evaluation of the factors that influence lung cancer outcomes within this community.

The cornerstone of early lung cancer detection is access to high-quality primary care. This includes regular check-ups, proactive screening, and the ability to identify potential symptoms early. In Little Switzerland, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, missed opportunities for early detection. The analysis will assess the current physician-to-patient ratio in the area, comparing it to both state and national averages.

Another crucial aspect is the presence of standout primary care practices. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening protocols. This might involve actively promoting screening guidelines, utilizing electronic health records to track patient risk factors (such as smoking history and family history of lung cancer), and implementing systems for timely referrals to specialists. Identifying these practices and understanding their operational models is vital. The analysis will investigate the presence of such practices in the area and evaluate their adherence to established screening guidelines.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The rural nature of Little Switzerland can present geographical barriers to accessing healthcare. Telemedicine offers a potential solution, enabling patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing travel time and improving access to care. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in the area have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease with which patients can access these services.

Beyond the clinical aspects, mental health resources play a crucial role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a key consideration. This could involve on-site counseling services or partnerships with mental health providers.

The analysis will also explore the presence of community-based resources that support lung cancer patients and their families. This includes support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. These resources can provide crucial emotional support, practical assistance, and information about available treatment options. The accessibility and effectiveness of these resources will be evaluated.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of Little Switzerland. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The analysis will assess the travel time and ease of access to these specialists. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams is also a key factor.

The analysis will also examine the awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines among both physicians and the general public. This includes assessing the extent to which primary care physicians are educating their patients about the benefits of screening, particularly for high-risk individuals. The analysis will also evaluate the effectiveness of public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness about lung cancer and promoting early detection.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 28749 will be a composite assessment based on these factors. A high score would indicate a community with strong primary care resources, proactive screening practices, readily available telemedicine options, accessible mental health services, and supportive community resources. Conversely, a low score would indicate a community facing challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes for lung cancer patients.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence access to care. This includes assessing the rates of health insurance coverage, the affordability of healthcare services, and the availability of transportation. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare access in the area will also be considered. The pandemic has disrupted healthcare services across the country, and the analysis will assess the extent to which these disruptions have affected lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in Little Switzerland.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for ZIP code 28749 will provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape and its impact on lung cancer outcomes. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this rural community, offering insights into areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning, resource allocation, and community outreach efforts.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Little Switzerland and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to specialized care, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can help you understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas of need. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.