28774, Sapphire, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28774, Sapphire, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.86 percent of the residents in 28774 has some form of health insurance. 48.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.55 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 28774 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28774. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 785 health care providers accessible to residents in 28774, Sapphire, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sapphire, NC (ZIP Code 28774)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within the Sapphire, North Carolina (ZIP code 28774) area, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing patient support. This analysis is designed to inform residents and healthcare professionals about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem concerning lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and proactive primary care. In Sapphire, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 28774 is essential. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this information, though it often requires navigating complex databases.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single practice or spread across multiple locations? A dispersed network can offer greater choice and potentially shorter travel distances for patients. However, a centralized system might facilitate better communication and coordination of care among providers. Understanding the geographical distribution is crucial for assessing accessibility, especially in a rural area like Sapphire, where transportation can be a significant barrier.

Identifying standout practices within the area is important. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, including lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history). They may employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Researching these practices involves reviewing patient reviews, checking their accreditation status, and investigating their participation in quality improvement initiatives.

Telemedicine adoption is a transformative factor in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is especially valuable for lung cancer patients who may need regular follow-up appointments, consultations with oncologists, and access to support groups. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs is crucial. Are they offering virtual appointments? Do they have the technology and infrastructure to support remote monitoring and communication with specialists?

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, yet they are critically important. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is a key component of comprehensive care. Do local practices have integrated mental health services? Are there referrals to mental health specialists readily available? Are support groups for lung cancer patients and their families accessible?

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment. It considers all the factors mentioned above: physician-to-patient ratio, geographical distribution of providers, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system for lung cancer patients. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

To further enhance the analysis, it is essential to consider the specific needs of the Sapphire community. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to insurance, and cultural considerations can all impact healthcare access and outcomes. Tailoring the assessment to these local nuances is crucial for generating a truly meaningful "Lung Cancer Score."

Data collection is a continuous process. Healthcare landscapes are dynamic. New practices open, telemedicine adoption rates change, and resources become available. Regularly updating the "Lung Cancer Score" analysis is essential to maintain its relevance and accuracy. This involves ongoing monitoring of local healthcare providers, tracking changes in service offerings, and staying informed about advancements in lung cancer care.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients and healthcare professionals. By providing a clear understanding of the local healthcare landscape, it can help patients make informed decisions about their care. It can also help healthcare providers identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance the quality of lung cancer care in Sapphire.

The “Lung Cancer Score” analysis for Sapphire, NC, demonstrates the complexity of assessing healthcare access and quality. It moves beyond simplistic metrics to consider the multifaceted factors impacting patient outcomes. By focusing on primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, this analysis provides a more holistic view of the local healthcare ecosystem.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Sapphire, NC (ZIP code 28774), and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can display physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points, offering a visual representation of the healthcare landscape. Use CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain valuable insights.