29370, Mountville, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29370, Mountville, South Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.92 percent of the residents in 29370 has some form of health insurance. 55.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.84 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 29370 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29370. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 126 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 29370, Mountville, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29370 & Primary Care in Mountville

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 29370 (Spartanburg, SC) and the availability of primary care in the nearby community of Mountville. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer. This includes an assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a valuable perspective for individuals seeking care and for healthcare providers looking to improve their services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. Mountville, while a smaller community, requires adequate primary care physician (PCP) coverage. Assessing the PCP-to-patient ratio is paramount. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early interventions. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs actively practicing in or serving Mountville, factoring in their patient load and the overall population of the area. This data will be compared to national and state averages to gauge the adequacy of primary care access.

Within ZIP code 29370, the availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is critical. The analysis will examine the concentration of these specialists, considering their board certifications, years of experience, and the specific services they offer. Are there sufficient numbers of pulmonologists to handle the demand for diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopies and CT scans? Are there oncologists specializing in thoracic oncology? The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, and oncology nurses, will be assessed. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices in Mountville and the ease of referral pathways will also be considered.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. This could include those with a proven track record of early detection through robust screening programs, adherence to national guidelines for treatment, and participation in clinical trials. The analysis will consider patient satisfaction scores, as well as the availability of advanced diagnostic technologies, such as PET scans and advanced imaging capabilities. Furthermore, the integration of patient navigation services, which guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, will be a key factor in determining a practice's standing.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in 29370 and serving Mountville utilize telemedicine for lung cancer care. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and the delivery of educational resources. Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who may face transportation challenges or live in geographically isolated areas. The availability of virtual support groups and online educational materials will also be evaluated.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The integration of mental health resources is therefore essential. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the practices themselves or through referral networks. Are there therapists or counselors specializing in oncology? Are support groups available for patients and their families? The presence of palliative care services, focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, will also be considered. A holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of patients is a hallmark of quality lung cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of smoking cessation programs and resources. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is critical for prevention and reducing the risk of recurrence. The presence of certified tobacco treatment specialists and the availability of medications and counseling services will be assessed. The integration of these programs within primary care practices and specialist offices is crucial for reaching individuals at risk.

Further, the analysis will evaluate the responsiveness of the healthcare system to changes in lung cancer treatment guidelines and advancements in research. This includes the adoption of new therapies, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, and the implementation of innovative diagnostic techniques. The ability of practices to adapt to these changes and provide patients with access to the latest treatment options is a key indicator of quality care.

The analysis will also consider the demographic makeup of the population served by the healthcare providers. Are there disparities in access to care or treatment outcomes based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? The analysis will assess whether practices are actively working to address these disparities and ensure that all patients receive equitable care. This includes providing culturally competent care and addressing language barriers.

Finally, the analysis will synthesize all of the above factors to create a comprehensive ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for the healthcare landscape in 29370 and Mountville. This score will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care in the region. It will serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve the delivery of care. The analysis will provide a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and primary care access, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas of high and low access, and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.