28753, Marshall, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28753, Marshall, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.00 percent of the residents in 28753 has some form of health insurance. 37.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.94 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 28753 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,056 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28753. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,866 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,635 health care providers accessible to residents in 28753, Marshall, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 28753, specifically in and around Marshall, North Carolina. This evaluation considers factors impacting patient access to quality care, including physician availability, innovative practices, and supportive resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Marshall, the concentration of PCPs is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. The analysis will examine the approximate number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and compare this to the estimated population. This will help determine if the area is adequately served or if there are shortages.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is vital. Are PCPs well-versed in lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Do they proactively offer screenings to eligible patients, particularly those with a smoking history or other risk factors? The analysis will probe into the practices of local PCPs to assess their adherence to these guidelines.

Specialist availability is another crucial aspect. Patients suspected of having lung cancer require prompt access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The geographical proximity of these specialists to Marshall is a key determinant of care. The analysis will investigate the travel times to specialists in nearby towns and cities, considering the potential impact on patients' ability to receive timely consultations and treatments.

Standout practices within the area will be highlighted. These are the medical facilities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to lung cancer care. This may involve early adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies, such as low-dose CT scans for screening, or the implementation of multidisciplinary care teams. Practices that prioritize patient education and support services, such as smoking cessation programs, will also be recognized.

Telemedicine is transforming healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its role in lung cancer care, particularly in follow-up appointments, remote monitoring, and consultations, is increasing. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations with specialists, the use of remote patient monitoring systems, and the ease with which patients can access these services.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health support is, therefore, an integral component of comprehensive care. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources in Marshall and surrounding areas. This includes the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, will be evaluated.

The analysis will also consider the availability of palliative care services. These services focus on improving the quality of life for patients and their families facing life-limiting illnesses. The presence of palliative care specialists, hospice care options, and pain management programs will be assessed.

The integration of data analytics and patient navigation services is becoming increasingly important. These tools can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments to understanding insurance coverage. The analysis will explore the availability of these services in the area and their impact on patient outcomes.

The analysis will not generate a simple numerical score. Instead, it will provide a nuanced assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in the target area. This includes identifying areas where resources are abundant and areas where improvements are needed. This information is intended to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and to highlight opportunities for healthcare providers to enhance their services.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on lung cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. The analysis will take these factors into account when assessing the overall quality of care.

The assessment of primary care availability will involve more than just physician-to-patient ratios. It will also consider the types of services offered by local practices. This includes assessing the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, such as X-rays and blood work, and the ability of practices to coordinate care with specialists.

The analysis will also examine the availability of community resources that can support lung cancer patients. This includes support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs. The accessibility of these resources, including their location and hours of operation, will be evaluated.

The analysis will consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The analysis will examine the types of insurance plans accepted by local providers and the potential for financial barriers to care.

The analysis will not provide a definitive ranking of doctors. Instead, it will offer a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in the target area, with the goal of improving patient outcomes.

The information presented in this analysis can be further explored using advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide visual representations of healthcare resources, helping to identify areas with high concentrations of providers and areas with potential gaps in care. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area.