29628, Calhoun Falls, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29628, Calhoun Falls, South Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.84 percent of the residents in 29628 has some form of health insurance. 45.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.42 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 29628 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 660 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29628. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 554 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 198 health care providers accessible to residents in 29628, Calhoun Falls, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Calhoun Falls, SC (ZIP Code 29628)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support within the context of Calhoun Falls, South Carolina (ZIP code 29628). The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors such as physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey. The data and conclusions are based on publicly available information and represent an estimation of the current healthcare landscape.

The primary focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) within or serving the 29628 ZIP code. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Their ability to provide timely screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support significantly impacts patient outcomes. Data limitations prevent a precise, numerically-graded “score,” but a qualitative assessment is possible.

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

Calhoun Falls, being a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. A critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages often mask the reality of rural healthcare access. The availability of PCPs directly impacts a patient's ability to receive prompt care. Longer wait times for appointments and fewer available physicians can delay diagnosis and treatment, negatively affecting survival rates.

Publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into physician distribution and potential shortages. These sources, however, can be limited in their real-time accuracy. The actual number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas is a crucial metric. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and any other providers who offer primary care services.

The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) in the area can improve access to care, especially for underserved populations. These clinics often offer a wider range of services and may have sliding-scale fee structures, making healthcare more affordable.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. The quality of care is often reflected in the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively promote screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers) are particularly noteworthy.

Another key aspect is the availability of specialized services. While Calhoun Falls might not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to larger hospitals and cancer centers in nearby cities (e.g., Anderson, Greenville) is important. The ease of referral to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is crucial.

The practice's commitment to patient education and support is also a critical factor. Does the practice offer educational materials about lung cancer, smoking cessation programs, or support groups? The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Furthermore, consider the practice’s patient satisfaction ratings, if available. Online reviews and patient testimonials, while not always perfectly representative, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine can play a vital role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling.

The adoption of telemedicine technologies by local practices is a significant positive indicator. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health providers. The use of remote monitoring devices can also improve patient management and early detection of complications.

The availability of telemedicine services can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for appointments, saving them time and money and improving their overall experience.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or mental health.

Ideally, mental health services are integrated into the primary care setting or readily accessible through referrals. This can help patients address anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that may arise during their cancer journey.

The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, can also be beneficial. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others who understand what they are going through.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

Based on the available data and general trends in rural healthcare, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Calhoun Falls (29628) likely faces challenges common to rural areas. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key concern, and access to specialists and comprehensive cancer care may require travel to larger cities. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are essential for improving patient outcomes. The presence of FQHCs or RHCs can positively impact access to care.

The specific score will depend on the degree to which these factors are present and integrated within the local healthcare system. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure with readily accessible primary care, specialist referrals, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health support. A lower score would reflect potential barriers to access and a need for improvements in these areas.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Calhoun Falls and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider exploring the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare resources available in this region.