28761, Nebo, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.42 percent of the residents in 28761 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.90 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 28761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,084 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28761. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Nebo, NC (ZIP Code 28761)**

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care access within Nebo, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28761), focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes. We will evaluate the available resources, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of skilled medical professionals. Within ZIP Code 28761, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses or treatment. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests improved access to care and a greater likelihood of timely interventions. Accurate data on this ratio necessitates a detailed analysis of physician counts and patient demographics within the defined area. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from physician directories, are essential for this calculation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is influenced by the specialization of the physicians. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most patients, access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance is paramount. This involves identifying the presence of pulmonologists and oncologists who actively practice within or near ZIP Code 28761, along with their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. Furthermore, evaluating the experience and expertise of these specialists, including their board certifications and the types of cancer treatments they offer, provides a more nuanced understanding of the care available.

Standout practices within the Nebo area warrant specific attention. These practices may distinguish themselves through innovative approaches to patient care, advanced technologies, or exceptional patient outcomes. Identifying these practices requires examining patient reviews, assessing their use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies, and evaluating their participation in clinical trials or research initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, provide comprehensive support services, and actively engage in community outreach are also strong candidates for recognition.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in ZIP Code 28761 is a key factor in our analysis. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used, the range of services offered, and the accessibility for patients, is critical. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering convenient and efficient care options, are considered favorably.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. This analysis considers the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, within the Nebo area or within a reasonable travel distance. It also assesses the integration of mental health services into primary care practices and cancer treatment centers. Practices that offer on-site counseling, provide referrals to mental health specialists, or incorporate mental health screenings into their routine care are viewed positively.

The physical infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery is also important. The proximity of hospitals, cancer centers, and diagnostic facilities to ZIP Code 28761 influences the accessibility of care. Assessing the distance to these facilities, the services they offer (e.g., radiation therapy, chemotherapy), and their overall quality of care is a necessary part of the analysis. The presence of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as PET/CT scanners, is also considered.

Finally, the analysis must consider the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. These services may include patient navigators, support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance resources. Practices and healthcare systems that offer these services demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care and supporting patients throughout their journey. The presence of these services can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

In conclusion, evaluating the lung cancer care landscape in Nebo, NC (ZIP Code 28761), requires a multifaceted approach. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the quality and accessibility of care. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area, allowing for informed decision-making by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, including the locations of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and user-friendly way to visualize the healthcare landscape in Nebo, NC, and other areas of interest.