29150, Sumter, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29150, Sumter, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.11 percent of the residents in 29150 has some form of health insurance. 48.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.49 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 29150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,865 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29150. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,844 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,053 health care providers accessible to residents in 29150, Sumter, South Carolina.

The following analysis evaluates primary care physician availability and related resources in Sumter, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29150), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This is not a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" but a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare landscape, considering elements that influence patient outcomes.

Sumter, South Carolina, a city with a population of approximately 40,000, presents a unique healthcare environment. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, the national average hovers around 1:400. Sumter’s ratio likely deviates from this, influenced by factors like physician recruitment and retention efforts, the presence of military healthcare facilities (Shaw Air Force Base), and the overall health needs of the community. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally correlates with better access to care, including preventative screenings for lung cancer.

Standout practices within Sumter play a vital role. Identifying practices with a strong focus on preventative care, particularly those actively screening for lung cancer, is essential. These practices often employ advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans, recommended for high-risk individuals. Furthermore, practices with established referral networks to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons are highly valuable. The presence of these specialists locally or within a reasonable travel distance significantly impacts patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of this analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, and their continued availability is essential, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, improving access to care. Practices that offer telehealth services, especially for lung cancer screening and management, receive a positive evaluation.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient well-being. Support groups, both in-person and online, also provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

Specific practices within Sumter warrant further investigation. Determining which practices actively screen for lung cancer and the frequency of their screening programs is critical. Identifying practices that utilize evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), and adhere to best practices for lung cancer screening is important. Furthermore, understanding the referral patterns of these practices, specifically to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is necessary.

The presence of a comprehensive cancer center in Sumter or within a reasonable driving distance is a significant factor. A cancer center typically offers a multidisciplinary approach to care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services. The availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments, is another positive indicator. The proximity to a cancer center can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access cannot be ignored. Sumter has a diverse population, and socioeconomic disparities can affect access to care. Factors such as insurance coverage, transportation, and health literacy can create barriers to screening and treatment. Practices that actively address these disparities, such as offering financial assistance or providing patient education materials in multiple languages, receive a favorable assessment.

The role of community outreach and education programs is also important. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as lung cancer awareness campaigns or smoking cessation programs, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and public health. These programs can help to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, encourage early detection, and promote healthy lifestyles.

The availability of smoking cessation programs within Sumter is a crucial factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. Practices that offer smoking cessation counseling, medications, and support groups are highly valuable. The accessibility and affordability of these programs are also important considerations.

The overall healthcare infrastructure in Sumter, including the presence of hospitals, imaging centers, and laboratories, plays a role. The availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The efficiency and responsiveness of the healthcare system, including appointment scheduling and test result turnaround times, also impact patient experience and outcomes.

The analysis of primary care availability in Sumter reveals a complex healthcare landscape. While specific data points are subject to change, the overall picture provides valuable insights. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the quality of lung cancer care.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare resources in Sumter, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, cancer centers, and other relevant facilities, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.