29164, Wagener, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29164, Wagener, South Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.90 percent of the residents in 29164 has some form of health insurance. 43.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.38 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 29164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,403 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 212 health care providers accessible to residents in 29164, Wagener, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wagener, SC (ZIP Code 29164)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 29164 (Wagener, South Carolina) focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of available resources. This score considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screenings, such as low-dose CT scans, is vital. This requires a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) who can advocate for preventative measures and recognize potential symptoms. Wagener, a rural community, faces challenges in this area. The primary care availability is a significant concern, with a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to ongoing care, ultimately impacting patient outcomes.

Calculating a precise physician-to-patient ratio requires specific, up-to-date data. However, based on publicly available information and national averages for rural areas, it is likely that the ratio in Wagener falls below the recommended levels. This means that each PCP is responsible for a larger patient base, potentially limiting the time they can dedicate to individual patient needs, including those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. This scarcity can also translate to longer wait times for appointments, further exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals seeking timely medical attention.

Beyond the availability of PCPs, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. Determining which practices excel in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and referral processes is critical. This involves evaluating their adherence to national guidelines, their use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and their collaborative relationships with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. This analysis, however, is challenging without access to detailed performance data and patient feedback specific to the Wagener area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the challenges of geographic isolation and limited access to specialists. The ability to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals remotely can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to online patient portals, is a crucial element in the "Lung Cancer Score."

Mental health support is a frequently overlooked, yet essential, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical for patient well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the presence and accessibility of these resources within the Wagener community. This includes evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, and the existence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Wagener, SC (ZIP Code 29164) is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges related to primary care availability and the potential for limited access to specialized care. The lack of readily available data on specific practice performance and the extent of telemedicine adoption further complicates the assessment. The availability of mental health resources, while important, is unlikely to fully compensate for the limitations in primary care and specialized cancer care.

Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to attract and retain PCPs in the Wagener area, promoting the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, and ensuring the availability of robust mental health support services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for individuals affected by lung cancer.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wagener, SC, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and areas with limited access, we recommend exploring the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.

**Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and gain a detailed, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wagener, SC, and beyond. This interactive tool will help you identify areas with the greatest need and visualize the potential for improvement in lung cancer care.**