28759, Mills River, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28759, Mills River, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.26 percent of the residents in 28759 has some form of health insurance. 35.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.82 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 28759 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,753 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28759. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,852 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,907 health care providers accessible to residents in 28759, Mills River, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mills River, NC (ZIP Code 28759)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Mills River, North Carolina (ZIP code 28759), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in early detection and successful treatment. We'll assess the resources available to residents, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all contributing elements to a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for the area.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection. This hinges on consistent primary care, where physicians can identify potential risks, order screenings, and facilitate timely referrals to specialists. Mills River, a relatively small community, presents both opportunities and challenges in this regard. The population density, combined with the geographic layout, influences access to care, making it crucial to understand the local healthcare ecosystem.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the system, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio for Mills River is difficult to obtain without extensive data analysis, it’s reasonable to assume that the rural nature of the area may present challenges compared to more urban settings. Residents may need to travel outside of the immediate ZIP code for comprehensive care, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are healthcare providers demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening, and offering a patient-centered approach. While a comprehensive review of individual practices requires detailed information about their internal processes, patient outcomes, and staff training, we can look for indicators of quality. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, have robust electronic health record systems for efficient data management, and are affiliated with larger healthcare networks are more likely to provide high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, or telehealth, offers a valuable tool for expanding access to care, especially in rural areas. It can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for primary care and mental health support, can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" by reducing geographical barriers and providing convenient access to healthcare professionals. The ability to receive care from the comfort of one’s home can also encourage patients to seek help when they otherwise might hesitate.

Mental health resources play a vital, often overlooked, role. A lung cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event, and the emotional and psychological impact can be profound. The availability of mental health support, including counseling and therapy, is essential for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or readily refer patients to mental health professionals, are better equipped to support the holistic well-being of their patients, thereby positively influencing the "Lung Cancer Score".

The presence of specialized resources, while not directly within the primary care scope, also impacts the overall care landscape. Proximity to oncology specialists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy centers is vital. The ease of access to these resources, whether through referral networks or physical location, influences the speed and effectiveness of treatment. The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that assist patients through the complex healthcare system also contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score".

Furthermore, a commitment to patient education is paramount. Primary care physicians should actively educate patients about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and the importance of early detection. This includes providing information on smoking cessation programs, healthy lifestyle choices, and the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. Practices that prioritize patient education empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their care.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, also plays a role. Patient portals that allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments can improve efficiency and patient engagement. The use of electronic health records also enables better coordination of care between different healthcare providers, ensuring that all relevant information is readily available.

Assessing the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Mills River requires a holistic approach. It necessitates considering the accessibility of primary care, the quality of services provided, the availability of specialized resources, and the integration of mental health support. While specific data on all these factors is difficult to obtain without significant research, the above analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of Mills River have access to the best possible care for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. This requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to create a supportive and patient-centered healthcare ecosystem.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mills River and visualize the proximity of resources, including primary care providers, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution, helping you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.