28905, Marble, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28905, Marble, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 28905 has some form of health insurance. 54.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.09 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 28905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 955 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28905. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 627 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28905, Marble, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on lung cancer care within ZIP code 28905, specifically evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of early detection and ongoing management. Marble, North Carolina, serves as the geographic context for this assessment. This analysis will not produce a numerical 'Lung Cancer Score' but rather a qualitative evaluation, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Marble, and more broadly within Cherokee County, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a crucial consideration. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and ultimately, delayed diagnoses. Data from state and national sources will be used to estimate this ratio, comparing it to both state and national averages. If the ratio is significantly below average, it signals a potential challenge in accessing timely primary care, a vital element in lung cancer screening and early intervention.

The identification of "standout practices" involves examining the quality of care delivered by primary care providers in the area. This assessment considers several factors. First, it looks at the availability of lung cancer screening programs, particularly low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), will be prioritized. Second, it considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with patient portals. EHRs facilitate efficient communication, care coordination, and the tracking of patient health data, while patient portals empower individuals to manage their health information and communicate with their physicians. Practices that leverage these technologies effectively are likely to provide a more comprehensive and patient-centered experience. Third, the analysis will examine the patient satisfaction data, where available. Patient feedback provides valuable insights into the quality of care, the physician-patient relationship, and the overall patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas with limited transportation options. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in Marble offer telemedicine services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them into their care delivery models are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential in comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services within primary care practices or through referral networks is an important consideration. The analysis will examine whether primary care practices in Marble have established relationships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or provide resources for patients to access mental health support. Practices that prioritize mental health integration are likely to provide more holistic and patient-centered care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with access to evidence-based smoking cessation programs is a critical component of lung cancer prevention and management. Practices that offer these programs, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to patient health and well-being.

The evaluation will consider the overall accessibility of care. This includes factors such as insurance acceptance, language accessibility, and the availability of transportation assistance. Practices that are accessible to a diverse patient population are more likely to serve the needs of the community effectively.

The findings of this analysis will be based on publicly available information, including data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and other relevant sources. The analysis will also consider information from physician directories, practice websites, and patient reviews. It is important to note that this analysis is not a substitute for a comprehensive medical evaluation. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician or other healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.

The limitations of this analysis include the reliance on publicly available data, which may not always be complete or up-to-date. The analysis will focus on primary care, recognizing that specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, also play a critical role in lung cancer care. The analysis is a snapshot in time and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

CartoChrome maps offers a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of healthcare access and quality. Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and analyze the factors that contribute to health disparities. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the information presented in this analysis and to explore the healthcare landscape in Marble and beyond.