29676, Salem, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29676, Salem, South Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.54 percent of the residents in 29676 has some form of health insurance. 57.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.10 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 29676 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 423 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29676. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,011 health care providers accessible to residents in 29676, Salem, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare Resources in ZIP Code 29676 and Salem, Focusing on Lung Cancer Care

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 29676 (likely a specific area within South Carolina) and Salem, with a particular emphasis on resources relevant to lung cancer care. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem’s capacity to address the complex needs of lung cancer patients. The goal is to provide a nuanced perspective, moving beyond simple rankings to offer actionable insights.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Specialists**

A critical element of lung cancer care is the availability of qualified physicians. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios within ZIP Code 29676 is paramount. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons per capita. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of specialists, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management. Data sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards are essential for this assessment. The analysis must identify potential gaps in access, particularly for underserved populations or those residing in rural areas within the ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis needs to consider the distribution of specialists. Are specialists concentrated in a single hospital or clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the area? This geographic distribution impacts patient access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the presence of multidisciplinary teams, including radiologists, pathologists, and nurses specializing in oncology. The collaborative approach of such teams is vital for comprehensive lung cancer care.

Salem’s primary care availability also plays a crucial role. Adequate primary care access is the cornerstone of early detection and management. Salem’s primary care physician-to-patient ratio and the presence of community health centers are crucial indicators. A robust primary care system can facilitate early screening, patient education, and referrals to specialists. The analysis should also consider the availability of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a significant role in primary care delivery, particularly in areas with physician shortages.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors beyond physician availability. This includes assessing the quality of care provided by hospitals and clinics within the ZIP code and in Salem. Key metrics to consider are:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates adherence to rigorous standards of care.
* **Patient Outcomes:** Analyzing survival rates, complication rates, and patient satisfaction scores provides insights into the effectiveness of treatment.
* **Treatment Modalities:** Evaluating the availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, is crucial.
* **Research and Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials indicates a commitment to innovation and access to cutting-edge treatments.

The analysis should highlight practices that demonstrate excellence in these areas. This might involve identifying hospitals with high patient satisfaction scores, clinics that offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs, or practices that actively participate in clinical trials. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the integration of evidence-based guidelines and best practices into clinical workflows.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis must evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption within the ZIP code and in Salem, focusing on its application in lung cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of:

* **Virtual consultations:** Allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely.
* **Remote monitoring:** Using wearable devices to track vital signs and symptoms.
* **Tele-education:** Providing patients with access to educational resources and support groups.

The analysis should consider the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes. It should also assess the barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as limited internet access or lack of digital literacy. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models should be highlighted as examples of innovation.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources within the ZIP code and in Salem. This includes evaluating the presence of:

* **Psychologists and psychiatrists:** Providing individual and group therapy.
* **Support groups:** Offering peer-to-peer support and education.
* **Counseling services:** Addressing the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.

The analysis should consider the integration of mental health services into the overall care model. This includes assessing whether mental health professionals are embedded within oncology practices or if there are established referral pathways. The analysis should also evaluate the availability of resources specifically tailored to the needs of lung cancer patients and their families.

**Conclusion**

This comprehensive analysis provides a multi-faceted view of the healthcare landscape relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP Code 29676 and Salem. By examining physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this assessment aims to inform both patients and healthcare providers. The findings can be used to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.

**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps**

To visualize the complex data presented in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital resources, and access to care in a dynamic and engaging way. Visit CartoChrome's website today to see how you can use mapping technology to improve your understanding of healthcare access and resources in your community.