29658, Long Creek, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29658, Long Creek, South Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.07 percent of the residents in 29658 has some form of health insurance. 25.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.07 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 29658 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 25 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29658. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 792 health care providers accessible to residents in 29658, Long Creek, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29658 & Primary Care in Long Creek

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 29658, focusing on their preparedness to address lung cancer risk factors and patient needs. The evaluation also considers primary care availability within the broader Long Creek area, recognizing its significance in patient access to care. This score is not a definitive ranking of physician quality, but rather a snapshot of resources and practices relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and supportive care.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score begins with accessible primary care. In Long Creek, assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. This, in turn, can negatively impact early detection efforts, crucial for improving lung cancer survival rates. Public health data, including information from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), will be critical in determining the physician-to-patient ratio within the Long Creek area.

Within ZIP code 29658, the analysis will identify and evaluate individual primary care practices. The assessment will consider several key factors. First, the availability of comprehensive patient histories, including detailed smoking histories, is vital. Physicians must consistently document smoking status and exposure to other risk factors, like radon or asbestos, to accurately assess individual risk. Practices that proactively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to flag patients at high risk and schedule appropriate screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, will score favorably.

Next, the analysis will evaluate the integration of evidence-based guidelines into clinical practice. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual LDCT screening for individuals meeting specific criteria, including age and smoking history. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines, offering screening to eligible patients and referring them to qualified radiologists, will receive a higher score. The analysis will also consider the use of patient education materials and resources regarding smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness.

Standout practices within 29658 will be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting lung cancer awareness and early detection. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate strong communication and coordination with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, will be recognized. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive timely and appropriate care throughout their cancer journey.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations, can significantly improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education will be viewed positively. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to smoking cessation counseling, a vital component of lung cancer prevention.

The analysis will also address the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This includes assessing for and addressing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that can arise during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 29658 will be a composite measure, incorporating all these factors. The score will reflect the practice's ability to identify at-risk patients, provide appropriate screening and referrals, support smoking cessation efforts, and address the mental and emotional needs of patients. The analysis will also assess the availability of resources for patients who have been diagnosed with lung cancer, including support groups and palliative care services.

The primary care landscape in Long Creek will be assessed based on its overall capacity to meet the needs of the population. This includes evaluating the geographic distribution of primary care practices, the availability of after-hours care, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The analysis will also consider the presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers that serve vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care environment in ZIP code 29658 and the Long Creek area. It is designed to inform patients about the resources available to them and to encourage physicians to prioritize lung cancer prevention and early detection. The analysis will highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in ZIP code 29658 and the Long Creek area, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven visualizations that can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and inform your healthcare decisions.