29307, Spartanburg, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29307, Spartanburg, South Carolina is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.30 percent of the residents in 29307 has some form of health insurance. 39.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.21 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 29307 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,658 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 15 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29307. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,075 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,690 health care providers accessible to residents in 29307, Spartanburg, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Spartanburg, SC (ZIP Code 29307) & Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Spartanburg, South Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 29307, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and referral, alongside other factors that contribute to a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific area, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon robust primary care access. In Spartanburg, the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 29307 is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau, when cross-referenced with physician directories and insurance provider networks, paint a general picture. A higher ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in timely access to appointments and preventative screenings, including those relevant to lung cancer. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, particularly for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms, is a significant indicator of primary care responsiveness.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals meeting the criteria established by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) – specifically, those aged 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history or current smokers. Practices demonstrating proactive screening programs, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are crucial. These practices should also have clear protocols for patient education about smoking cessation and referral to smoking cessation programs. The ability to efficiently navigate the complex healthcare system is also a marker of quality.

Within the 29307 ZIP code, the presence of standout primary care practices is a key factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score. These practices are those that go above and beyond in patient care. They often have a dedicated care coordinator or nurse navigator to guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment process. They proactively reach out to patients for preventative screenings, and employ electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors and ensure timely follow-up. They may also be actively involved in community outreach programs aimed at educating the public about lung cancer risks and prevention.

The adoption of telemedicine within primary care is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in terms of accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide ongoing support can also improve patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group support, and access to psychiatrists or psychologists, is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. Primary care practices that screen for mental health concerns and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients.

The presence of specialized lung cancer care within Spartanburg, particularly in facilities serving ZIP code 29307, is essential. This includes oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices, and the efficiency of referral pathways between them, are important. The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as advanced imaging techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, is also a key indicator of the quality of care. Hospitals and cancer centers that participate in clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 29307 is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates strong primary care access, proactive screening programs, effective referral pathways, robust mental health support, and access to specialized lung cancer care. A lower score suggests potential challenges in one or more of these areas, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the data and gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare resources available in Spartanburg and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. This platform allows you to analyze physician locations, primary care access points, and other relevant data points, providing a visual representation of the healthcare landscape.

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Explore the healthcare landscape of Spartanburg, SC, with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your area.