29653, Hodges, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29653, Hodges, South Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.57 percent of the residents in 29653 has some form of health insurance. 48.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.83 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 29653 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 673 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29653. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,594 health care providers accessible to residents in 29653, Hodges, South Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29653 and Primary Care Availability in Hodges, SC**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 29653, which encompasses the town of Hodges, South Carolina, with a specific focus on primary care availability and related factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement. This assessment utilizes publicly available data and considers the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a rural setting.

The core of this analysis centers on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection is crucial in lung cancer treatment. A robust primary care infrastructure is essential for screening, referral, and ongoing patient management. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a larger number of patients per physician, can lead to reduced access, longer wait times, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) will be consulted to determine the PCP-to-population ratio within 29653 and the surrounding areas. This ratio will be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. The analysis will explore the presence of patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) or similar models of care. PCMHs emphasize a team-based approach, care coordination, and patient engagement, which can significantly improve outcomes for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer. The availability of after-hours care, including urgent care clinics and on-call services, will also be assessed. This is critical for addressing acute symptoms and preventing unnecessary emergency room visits.

The analysis will identify any standout primary care practices within 29653 or nearby that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in the areas of preventative screening and chronic disease management. Factors considered will include patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and the implementation of innovative care models. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals, will be a key indicator of proactive care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area of focus. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialist consultations, particularly for patients in rural areas. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local primary care practices utilize telemedicine for various services, including remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and behavioral health support. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer-related needs, such as follow-up appointments and support groups, will be specifically examined.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are an integral part of cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the co-location of mental health providers or the use of integrated behavioral health models, will be evaluated. This includes the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families.

The availability of specialists is another crucial factor. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will examine the proximity of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists to 29653. The presence of cancer treatment centers, including those offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, will be evaluated. The availability of clinical trials and other advanced treatment options will also be considered.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact healthcare access. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited health literacy can all create barriers to care. The analysis will examine the demographics of the population within 29653, including income levels, educational attainment, and access to transportation. The presence of community health centers or other programs that provide financial assistance or transportation services will be assessed.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for the area will reflect a composite of these factors. A higher score will indicate a more favorable healthcare environment for lung cancer patients, characterized by strong primary care availability, robust specialist access, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score will indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care. The score will be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology used and the rationale behind the scoring system.

The final analysis will also include recommendations for improving the healthcare landscape within 29653. These recommendations may include strategies for increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health care into primary care practices, and addressing socioeconomic barriers to care. The recommendations will be tailored to the specific needs of the community and will be based on the findings of the analysis.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare environment within 29653, specifically focusing on the factors that impact lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The findings will be valuable for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members who are working to improve the health of the residents of Hodges and the surrounding areas.

**Visualize the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

To truly understand the spatial relationships and access to care in the 29653 area, we recommend exploring the data with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that allow you to visualize physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant healthcare data in a dynamic and user-friendly format. This will provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and help identify areas where improvements are needed. Explore the possibilities and see the area's healthcare landscape in a whole new light.