29505, Florence, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29505, Florence, South Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.45 percent of the residents in 29505 has some form of health insurance. 34.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.51 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 29505 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,329 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29505. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,183 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,960 health care providers accessible to residents in 29505, Florence, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Florence, SC (ZIP Code 29505)

This analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 29505 (Florence, South Carolina), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed assessment of the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement. This analysis is not a ranking of individual doctors, but rather a holistic view of the healthcare ecosystem.

Florence, South Carolina, presents a unique challenge. While it is a regional hub, it also faces the common issues of rural healthcare: access disparities, resource limitations, and the need for proactive preventative care. Lung cancer, being a serious disease, necessitates a robust and accessible healthcare system.

Primary care availability is a critical starting point. The accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection and preventative measures. The physician-to-patient ratio within 29505 is a key metric. A high ratio (fewer physicians per patient) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Assessing this ratio requires analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) can be utilized to estimate the ratio. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a significant concern.

Beyond the numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? Examining the geographic distribution of practices is vital. This can reveal "healthcare deserts" where access is severely limited. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by these practices is a factor. Are practices actively accepting new patients, or are they operating at capacity? This information can be gathered through direct calls to practices or through publicly available directories.

Standout practices in Florence can be identified through various factors. These include: the presence of dedicated pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer, affiliations with larger healthcare systems, and accreditations from reputable organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC). Hospitals and clinics with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening, are also highly valuable. Additionally, practices with strong patient-centered care models, including efficient appointment scheduling and clear communication, will have a positive impact.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within 29505 involves examining which practices offer telehealth services and the types of services they provide. Do they offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or medication management? The availability of telehealth can mitigate some of the access challenges.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound emotional impact on patients and their families. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying mental health providers within the ZIP code and evaluating their capacity to serve patients. Do practices offer integrated mental health services, or do they have referral pathways to mental health specialists? The integration of mental health support into cancer care is a sign of a patient-centered approach.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations within the community is also a factor. These groups provide a crucial source of emotional support, information, and practical assistance for patients and their families. Are there local chapters of organizations like the American Lung Association or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation? These organizations offer resources and support that can significantly improve the patient experience.

Furthermore, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment is crucial. Practices should adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). This ensures that patients receive the most appropriate and effective care. Analyzing the adherence to these guidelines requires examining the practices' protocols and procedures.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in 29505 requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of primary care practices, the presence of specialized pulmonologists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the utilization of evidence-based guidelines. Addressing any deficiencies in these areas is essential to improving patient outcomes and providing comprehensive care. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Florence, South Carolina, have access to the resources they need to fight lung cancer effectively.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Florence, South Carolina, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization.