29625, Anderson, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29625, Anderson, South Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.01 percent of the residents in 29625 has some form of health insurance. 40.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.94 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 29625 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29625. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,348 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,793 health care providers accessible to residents in 29625, Anderson, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Anderson, SC (ZIP Code 29625)

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians practicing within the 29625 ZIP code in Anderson, South Carolina, while also considering the broader context of primary care availability within the city. This score will reflect factors relevant to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient support, ultimately aiming to gauge the community's preparedness in addressing lung cancer. This analysis will not be presented as a numerical score but rather a qualitative evaluation of the key components.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon accessible and high-quality primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. A high ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data regarding physician density within the 29625 ZIP code and the broader Anderson area needs to be collected from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) or the American Medical Association (AMA). This data will be analyzed to determine if the area is adequately served by primary care physicians. The analysis will also consider the types of primary care providers available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners. A diverse range of providers can offer patients more choices and potentially improve access.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters significantly. This includes the proactive use of lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the degree to which practices within 29625 are actively implementing these guidelines. This can be assessed through public health data, surveys of physicians, and review of practice websites and patient testimonials (if available). The analysis will also assess the availability of patient education materials regarding lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options.

Standout practices within the 29625 ZIP code will be identified based on their commitment to lung cancer prevention and early detection. These practices might exhibit exemplary patient education programs, demonstrate a high rate of adherence to screening guidelines, or have a strong track record of patient advocacy. Identifying these standout practices will help highlight best practices that other providers can emulate. This could involve researching local physician groups, reviewing patient feedback on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, and consulting with local healthcare organizations.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. This includes virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The analysis will investigate the extent to which primary care practices in 29625 are utilizing telemedicine platforms and the types of services offered remotely. The availability of telehealth can improve patient access to care, reduce travel burden, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their providers.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with lung cancer is a critical consideration. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices and in the broader Anderson community. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, therapists, counselors), referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screening into routine care. The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to individuals with cancer.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is also a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs can significantly reduce a patient's risk. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in 29625 offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs. This includes access to counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and other evidence-based interventions. The availability of these resources is essential for helping patients quit smoking and reduce their risk of developing lung cancer.

The analysis will also consider the overall community resources available to support lung cancer patients. This includes the presence of cancer support organizations, patient advocacy groups, and access to specialized cancer care facilities. The proximity of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and comprehensive care. This includes evaluating the presence of local cancer centers, support groups, and other community resources that can assist patients throughout their treatment journey.

The Lung Cancer Score analysis will incorporate data from various sources, including public health data, physician surveys, patient testimonials, and community resource directories. The final assessment will provide a holistic view of the preparedness of primary care within the 29625 ZIP code and Anderson, South Carolina, to address the challenges of lung cancer. It will highlight areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning, improve patient access to care, and ultimately, improve the outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer.

For a more detailed geographical understanding of the data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and the distribution of resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualizing this information on a map can reveal patterns and insights that are not readily apparent in tabular data.