29175, Westville, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29175, Westville, South Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.93 percent of the residents in 29175 has some form of health insurance. 36.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.90 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 29175 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29175. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 55 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 131 health care providers accessible to residents in 29175, Westville, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Westville, SC (ZIP Code 29175)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within Westville, South Carolina (ZIP code 29175), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address lung cancer, a disease often diagnosed and managed in the primary care setting.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs in Westville is a critical factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, a general assessment indicates a potential shortfall in the number of PCPs relative to the population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, a scarcity of PCPs can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, impacting the quality of care.

The quality of primary care is as important as its availability. This includes the PCPs' knowledge of lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and diagnostic procedures. A PCP's ability to effectively counsel patients on smoking cessation, a crucial preventative measure, is also vital. Evaluating the specific training and expertise of PCPs in Westville requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, which is beyond the scope of this general analysis. However, the overall impression is that access to primary care may be a significant challenge.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Westville. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs in Westville is a key indicator. Assessing the prevalence of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring programs, and online patient portals provides insight into the healthcare system's ability to leverage technology. A high adoption rate suggests a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care, which is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial aspect of the overall care continuum. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within the Westville healthcare network, and their integration with primary care practices, is a critical factor. A lack of readily available mental health support can negatively impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

Identifying standout practices within Westville requires a more granular analysis. This would involve evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care would be considered exemplary. This analysis would require access to detailed practice-level data, which is not available for this general assessment.

The overall lung cancer score for Westville, SC (ZIP code 29175), reflects a complex interplay of factors. The potential shortage of PCPs, coupled with the need for increased telemedicine adoption and readily available mental health resources, suggests a need for improvement. The quality of primary care, and the integration of mental health services, are essential for a comprehensive approach to patient care. The score, therefore, is likely to be moderate, with significant room for improvement in several key areas.

Addressing the challenges identified requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes initiatives to attract and retain PCPs, promote telemedicine adoption, and expand mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential. Investing in patient education and awareness campaigns can also play a vital role in improving early detection rates and patient outcomes.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Westville, including the location of physicians, primary care practices, and available resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in your area.