28754, Mars Hill, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28754, Mars Hill, North Carolina is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.05 percent of the residents in 28754 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.66 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 28754 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,859 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28754. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,071 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,607 health care providers accessible to residents in 28754, Mars Hill, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mars Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28754)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Mars Hill, North Carolina (ZIP code 28754), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The assessment considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

**Primary Care Accessibility and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection and referral are crucial. In Mars Hill, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, alongside the population they serve. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access to primary care, allowing for more frequent check-ups and potentially earlier detection of suspicious symptoms. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to calculate this ratio. The analysis should also consider the proximity of primary care practices to residential areas, factoring in travel time and transportation options, particularly for patients with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute illnesses or concerns is a critical indicator. Delays in accessing primary care can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. Practices that prioritize prompt appointments, especially for patients presenting with respiratory symptoms, are highly valued.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key aspects of their operations. This includes their commitment to preventative care, such as offering smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening services (e.g., low-dose CT scans) for high-risk individuals. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors and early detection strategies are particularly noteworthy.

Another critical factor is the integration of technology. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, oncologists) are highly beneficial. This ensures that patient information, including medical history, imaging results, and treatment plans, is readily accessible to all involved in the patient's care.

The patient experience is also paramount. Practices that prioritize patient communication, providing clear and concise explanations of diagnoses and treatment options, are highly regarded. The availability of multilingual staff or translation services is essential to cater to the diverse needs of the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Mars Hill. The analysis should assess the extent to which local practices have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing for remote follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to support groups. It can reduce the need for frequent travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility challenges. The analysis should evaluate the ease of use of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine services into the overall care plan.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The integration of mental health services into the healthcare system is crucial. Practices that screen patients for depression and anxiety, and offer referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The availability of on-site mental health professionals or partnerships with mental health providers is highly advantageous. The analysis should also consider the accessibility of mental health services, including insurance coverage and affordability.

**Specific Considerations for Mars Hill:**

The specific characteristics of Mars Hill, a rural community, must be considered. Transportation challenges, limited public transportation options, and potential geographic isolation can significantly impact access to healthcare. The analysis should factor in the availability of transportation assistance programs for patients, such as volunteer driver services or partnerships with local organizations.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographic profile of Mars Hill, including the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking rates and exposure to environmental hazards. This information can inform the development of targeted prevention and early detection programs.

**Conclusion:**

This "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Mars Hill, NC (ZIP code 28754). By evaluating primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive picture of the support available to individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. This information can empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved services within their community.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas of need within Mars Hill and the surrounding regions.