29377, Startex, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29377, Startex, South Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.76 percent of the residents in 29377 has some form of health insurance. 60.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 24.69 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 29377 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 72 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29377. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,300 health care providers accessible to residents in 29377, Startex, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29377 & Startex Primary Care

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for medical resources available to residents of ZIP Code 29377, focusing on primary care availability in the adjacent area of Startex, South Carolina. The objective is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of care relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The score considers factors like physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis and management of this disease. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score begins with robust primary care access. Startex, while a small community, serves as a critical access point for many residents of 29377. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the immediate vicinity directly impacts the likelihood of early detection through regular screenings and timely referrals to specialists. Insufficient PCP availability forces patients to travel further for care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment, which significantly impacts survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio in Startex, and the surrounding areas, is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient, potentially hindering thorough examinations and personalized care plans.

Within the 29377 ZIP code, the presence of general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians is assessed. These physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system and play a crucial role in identifying potential lung cancer risks, such as smoking history, and ordering appropriate screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals. The quality of primary care in the area is also evaluated. This includes factors such as the length of time patients spend with their physicians, the availability of same-day appointments, and the overall patient satisfaction levels.

Identifying standout practices within 29377 is essential. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening programs and patient education on lung cancer risks, will score higher. The existence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, which actively reach out to high-risk individuals, is a positive indicator. Practices that have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively to track patient risk factors and manage follow-up appointments also receive favorable consideration. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management is another critical factor.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare accessibility, especially for rural communities like those served by Startex and 29377. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for routine follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for quicker intervention in case of complications. The ease of access to telehealth services, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows are all considered.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or chronic illness. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, such as co-located therapists, can streamline access to support and improve patient outcomes. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, provides crucial emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

The analysis also considers the proximity of specialized cancer care facilities. The presence of oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and bronchoscopy, is also assessed. The integration of these specialists with the primary care network is another key factor. Practices that have established referral pathways and collaborate effectively with specialists will score higher.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score will reflect the overall healthcare landscape in the region, including the availability of resources for smoking cessation programs. These programs are vital for preventing lung cancer and improving patient outcomes. The accessibility of these programs, the types of services offered (e.g., counseling, medication), and the success rates of the programs are all considered. The presence of public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness about lung cancer and promoting healthy lifestyles also contributes positively to the score.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare resources available to residents of 29377 and those served by primary care in Startex. This score is not intended to be a definitive judgment of the quality of care, but rather a comparative analysis of the resources available and the potential for improving patient outcomes. The score will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 29377 and Startex, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps provide a detailed and dynamic view of the region's healthcare resources, helping you understand the accessibility and availability of care in your area.