29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 29439 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.69 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 29439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 251 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29439. An estimate of 22 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 272 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,808 health care providers accessible to residents in 29439, Folly Beach, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Analyzing Physician Resources in Folly Beach (ZIP Code 29439)

The task at hand is to assess the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the Folly Beach, South Carolina ZIP code of 29439. This analysis will focus on primary care physicians, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, and the surrounding network of specialists and support services. A “Lung Cancer Score,” although not a formal metric, will be used as a framework to rank the overall resources available, taking into account physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support.

Folly Beach, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relatively small population, coupled with its location, may impact access to specialized care. Therefore, this analysis will consider the broader healthcare landscape accessible to residents, including resources in nearby Charleston.

**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Folly Beach requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). However, a general understanding can be gained by examining the number of primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer physicians per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care and early diagnosis. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access.

The proximity of Charleston is a significant factor. Residents of Folly Beach likely have access to a wider range of primary care physicians and specialists within the city. This extends the effective physician pool and potentially mitigates the impact of a lower physician-to-patient ratio specifically within the ZIP code.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires evaluating several factors, including the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. This information is often gathered through patient reviews, practice websites, and information from healthcare rating organizations.

Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening, are particularly valuable. This involves offering services like smoking cessation programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and adhering to recommended screening guidelines for individuals at high risk. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems, such as MUSC Health or Roper St. Francis Healthcare, often have access to more advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is especially relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in Folly Beach.

Practices that offer telemedicine services can enhance patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on the availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Mental health support is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The availability of mental health resources within Folly Beach or in close proximity is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are particularly beneficial. This might involve having mental health professionals on staff or establishing referral pathways to mental health providers in the community. Support groups, whether in-person or online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients.

**Assessing the “Lung Cancer Score” in Folly Beach:**

Without specific data on physician numbers, practice characteristics, and resource availability, it is difficult to assign a precise “Lung Cancer Score.” However, a preliminary assessment can be made based on the factors discussed.

The score would likely be influenced by the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** The availability of primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas.
* **Preventative Care Focus:** The extent to which practices offer smoking cessation programs, promote healthy lifestyles, and adhere to lung cancer screening guidelines.
* **Telemedicine Integration:** The availability of telemedicine services for primary care and specialist consultations.
* **Mental Health Support:** The availability of mental health professionals and support groups for patients.
* **Access to Specialists:** The proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists in Charleston.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

Folly Beach faces challenges related to its small size and potential limitations in local healthcare resources. However, the proximity to Charleston provides significant opportunities for access to a wider range of specialists and advanced treatment options.

The adoption of telemedicine can further enhance access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Increased awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines and the promotion of preventative care are critical.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape in Folly Beach, while potentially limited in some areas, benefits from its proximity to Charleston. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support are all critical factors in the overall quality of care. A comprehensive assessment would require more detailed data on physician numbers, practice characteristics, and resource availability.

**Take Action with CartoChrome Maps:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Folly Beach and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. They can help you identify practices that offer specific services, such as lung cancer screening or telemedicine, and assess the overall accessibility of healthcare resources in your community.