29160, Swansea, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29160, Swansea, South Carolina is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.88 percent of the residents in 29160 has some form of health insurance. 47.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.92 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 29160 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,538 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 30 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29160. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,353 health care providers accessible to residents in 29160, Swansea, South Carolina.

This analysis provides an assessment of lung cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within the ZIP code 29160, encompassing Swansea, South Carolina. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly as it relates to lung cancer, for residents and potential patients.

The initial consideration revolves around the availability of primary care physicians. A robust primary care infrastructure is crucial for early detection and management of lung cancer. Early diagnosis significantly improves patient outcomes. The physician-to-patient ratio within 29160 is a key indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access to care. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau will be instrumental in determining this ratio. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits, and poorer overall health outcomes. The analysis will delve into the number of practicing primary care physicians, considering both general practitioners and internal medicine specialists, and compare this to the estimated population within the ZIP code.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care practices is paramount. This analysis will examine the presence of patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) or similar models of care. PCMHs emphasize coordinated, comprehensive care, which is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer. The evaluation will consider factors such as accreditation by recognized organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, and the practice's commitment to preventive care, including lung cancer screening recommendations for high-risk individuals. The analysis will also consider patient satisfaction scores, if available, as an indicator of practice quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 29160 will be assessed. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will investigate the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments and medication management. The presence of telemedicine capabilities is a significant factor in assessing the accessibility and responsiveness of primary care services within the community.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore essential. The analysis will explore the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, in the area. It will also investigate the presence of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a particularly positive indicator, as it facilitates a more holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying standout practices within 29160 is a key objective. This requires a multifaceted evaluation. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporate innovative technologies like telemedicine, and actively address the mental health needs of their patients will be recognized. The analysis will highlight practices that have achieved accreditation, demonstrate high patient satisfaction, and actively participate in community outreach and education programs. The identification of these practices serves as a benchmark for others and provides valuable information for patients seeking quality care.

The availability of lung cancer screening programs is also crucial. The analysis will consider the presence of screening programs in the area, including access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals. The analysis will also evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs, which are essential for preventing lung cancer and improving outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease. Collaboration between primary care practices, pulmonologists, and other specialists is essential for providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

The analysis also considers the broader community context. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly impact access to care and patient outcomes. The analysis will consider these factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 29160. The overall goal is to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for improving lung cancer care in the community.

The final ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will provide a relative ranking of the healthcare resources available in 29160. This score will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help to identify areas where improvements are needed and to guide the allocation of resources to enhance the quality of care.

The analysis concludes with a call to action. To gain a deeper, more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 29160 and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, providing a dynamic and interactive way to understand the healthcare environment. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more comprehensive and nuanced perspective on the availability and accessibility of lung cancer care resources in Swansea and the surrounding region. This visual tool can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders alike.