28752, Marion, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28752, Marion, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.91 percent of the residents in 28752 has some form of health insurance. 40.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.16 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 28752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28752. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,590 health care providers accessible to residents in 28752, Marion, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marion, NC (ZIP Code 28752)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP code 28752 (Marion, North Carolina) specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide an informed "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering primary care access, specialist availability, and supportive services, to help residents understand their healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection is critical, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Marion, the availability of PCPs significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. We must consider the physician-to-patient ratio. The national average provides a benchmark. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau is essential to calculate this ratio accurately for 28752.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Does the area have practices that emphasize preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening guidelines? The Lung Cancer Score will be higher if local practices actively promote these preventative measures. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability between practices is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, allowing for better coordination of care between PCPs and specialists, which is particularly important for patients navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

Specialist availability is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. Access to pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is paramount. The presence of these specialists within Marion or in nearby communities (e.g., Asheville) directly impacts the score. The closer the proximity, the higher the score. Travel time to specialists can significantly affect patient outcomes and quality of life, especially for those undergoing treatment.

Standout practices within Marion, if any, should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, and offer comprehensive treatment options. This might include practices that participate in clinical trials, have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes, or offer integrated care models. Identifying these practices and highlighting their strengths will contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy without having to travel long distances. The Lung Cancer Score benefits from practices that embrace telemedicine, particularly for patients who have mobility issues or who live far from specialist centers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services within Marion or accessible through referral networks directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Integrated behavioral health services within medical practices are particularly beneficial.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of ancillary services. These include access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), respiratory therapy, and palliative care. The more comprehensive the support system, the higher the score. Palliative care, in particular, can significantly improve the quality of life for patients by managing symptoms and providing emotional support.

Furthermore, community outreach and education initiatives play a vital role. Practices that actively participate in community health fairs, offer educational programs about lung cancer prevention and early detection, and partner with local organizations to raise awareness contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Marion, NC (28752) will be a composite assessment, weighing all these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with readily available resources, emphasizing early detection, comprehensive treatment options, and supportive services. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding specialist availability, and enhancing access to mental health resources.

The analysis will need to be updated regularly. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new practices opening, telemedicine adoption increasing, and treatment options advancing. The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment that must reflect these changes to remain relevant and useful.

The information gathered from this analysis will be valuable for both patients and healthcare providers. It can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and identify the best resources available to them. It can also provide healthcare providers with insights into areas where they can improve their services and better serve the needs of their patients.

The final Lung Cancer Score, based on the specific data gathered and analyzed, will provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Marion, NC, regarding lung cancer care. This score will be a valuable tool for residents seeking information about their healthcare options.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Marion, NC (28752), including the locations of medical facilities, specialist offices, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare journey.