29519, Centenary, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29519, Centenary, South Carolina is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 29519 has some form of health insurance. 74.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.67 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 29519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29519. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 242 health care providers accessible to residents in 29519, Centenary, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Centenary, SC and ZIP Code 29519

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care access and related healthcare resources within ZIP Code 29519, encompassing the Centenary, South Carolina area. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, considering factors beyond simple physician availability, to offer insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals facing a potential or confirmed lung cancer diagnosis. The analysis will explore physician-to-patient ratios, examine standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer treatment and patient well-being.

The primary focus is on Centenary, SC and the surrounding areas within ZIP Code 29519. This region, like many rural areas, often faces unique challenges in healthcare access. These challenges include geographic limitations, potential shortages of specialized medical professionals, and resource constraints. Understanding these factors is crucial for accurately evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" and identifying areas for improvement.

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

A foundational element of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can significantly impact access to early detection and preventative care, both crucial in the fight against lung cancer. Early detection through screening programs, often initiated by PCPs, is vital for improved survival rates.

Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and other relevant sources will be consulted to determine the exact PCP-to-patient ratio within 29519. This data will be compared to state and national averages to benchmark the area's performance. The analysis will also consider the proximity of patients to available primary care practices, factoring in travel times and transportation options, especially for those in rural areas. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and other safety-net providers, which often serve a higher proportion of underserved populations, will be carefully evaluated.

Primary care availability directly influences the likelihood of early detection of lung cancer. PCPs play a vital role in ordering and interpreting screening tests, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Limited access to PCPs translates to fewer opportunities for screening and early intervention, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Specialists:**

Beyond primary care, the "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The presence of these specialists within or near ZIP Code 29519 is essential for providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis will identify any standout practices within the area, evaluating their reputation, patient reviews, and the range of services they offer.

Factors considered will include the practice's experience with lung cancer cases, its utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and its participation in clinical trials. The availability of multidisciplinary care teams, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and social workers, will also be assessed. This multidisciplinary approach is crucial for providing holistic care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.

The analysis will also evaluate the proximity of specialized cancer centers and hospitals, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare systems in nearby cities like Florence or Myrtle Beach. While these facilities may not be directly within the ZIP code, their accessibility is crucial for patients requiring specialized treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Transportation options to these centers will be considered.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by healthcare providers within 29519. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and online educational resources.

Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for lung cancer patients by reducing the need for travel, providing convenient access to specialists, and facilitating remote monitoring of symptoms and treatment progress. The analysis will investigate the types of telemedicine services offered, the technology used, and the ease of access for patients.

The analysis will also consider the availability of reliable internet access within the area, as this is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine services. The digital divide, where some populations lack access to affordable and reliable internet, can exacerbate healthcare disparities.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" will incorporate an assessment of the availability of mental health resources and support services within the area. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups.

The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, will be assessed. These groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support.

The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan. This includes the availability of mental health screenings, counseling services, and referrals to appropriate resources. Addressing the mental health needs of lung cancer patients is crucial for improving their quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 29519, encompassing Centenary, SC, is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. This analysis has highlighted the critical importance of primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The specific data gathered and analyzed will provide a more precise and nuanced assessment of the area's strengths and weaknesses.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Centenary, SC and the surrounding areas, and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community members. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and to make informed decisions about your health.