28756, Mill Spring, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28756, Mill Spring, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.24 percent of the residents in 28756 has some form of health insurance. 44.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.79 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 28756 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 845 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28756. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,297 health care providers accessible to residents in 28756, Mill Spring, North Carolina.

Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28756 and Primary Care Availability in Mill Spring

This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28756, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and related resources relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Mill Spring, North Carolina, falls within this ZIP code, and its healthcare infrastructure will be a central focus. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care.

Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care

A fundamental aspect of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural area like Mill Spring, the availability of primary care physicians significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing care for lung cancer. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and overall poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, facilitating earlier detection and intervention. Analyzing the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28756 requires data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. This analysis needs to go beyond simple numbers. It must consider the age and health status of the population, the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer (such as smoking), and the presence of any underserved populations within the area.

Standout Practices and Their Impact

Identifying standout medical practices within 28756 is crucial. These practices often serve as beacons of quality care, offering advanced diagnostic tools, experienced medical professionals, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists; the availability of advanced imaging technologies like low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening; and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promote smoking cessation initiatives, and offer patient navigation services are particularly valuable. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their treatment journey. The presence of a hospital or clinic with a dedicated lung cancer program would significantly improve the overall score.

Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Mill Spring. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens for patients, facilitate timely consultations with specialists, and improve communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Assessing telemedicine adoption rates within 28756 involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, the types of technologies used, and the patient's utilization of these services. The analysis must consider the accessibility of reliable internet connectivity, a potential barrier in rural areas.

Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress are common experiences. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services within 28756, including the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. The proximity of these resources and their ability to accept insurance are also important factors.

Specific Considerations for Mill Spring

Mill Spring's location within 28756 requires a localized approach to this analysis. The population demographics, the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, and the existing healthcare infrastructure must be considered. This means focusing on the specific practices and resources available within Mill Spring and the surrounding communities. This analysis needs to identify any unique challenges or opportunities for improving lung cancer care within this specific area. It should assess the effectiveness of any existing community outreach programs or initiatives aimed at promoting early detection and prevention.

Data Sources and Methodology

This analysis relies on data from several sources. The primary sources include publicly available data from HRSA, state medical boards, and local healthcare providers. Data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice locations, and services offered can be obtained from these sources. Information on telemedicine adoption rates and mental health resources can be gathered through surveys, interviews, and online research. The analysis will use a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to assess the healthcare landscape within 28756.

Conclusion

The healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28756, specifically in Mill Spring, presents both challenges and opportunities for improving lung cancer care. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption rates, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system can be achieved. This analysis is designed to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare providers, and empower patients to make informed choices about their care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape within 28756, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to resources, explore CartoChrome maps.