29684, Starr, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29684, Starr, South Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.49 percent of the residents in 29684 has some form of health insurance. 31.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.55 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 29684 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,319 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29684. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 691 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 349 health care providers accessible to residents in 29684, Starr, South Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29684 & Starr, SC**

This analysis evaluates the availability of resources and care quality for lung cancer patients within ZIP code 29684, encompassing the town of Starr, South Carolina, and its surrounding areas. The primary focus is on primary care physician (PCP) availability, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all critical factors in a patient's journey from initial suspicion to diagnosis and treatment. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Starr, SC, and ZIP code 29684 presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals, and this can be particularly acute for primary care. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the timely diagnosis of lung cancer. Early detection is crucial for improved outcomes, and any barrier to accessing prompt medical attention can negatively impact a patient's prognosis. The analysis would involve identifying the total number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) would be used to estimate these ratios.

The presence of standout primary care practices within 29684 is another critical factor. Identifying practices known for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening, is essential. These practices often have established protocols for assessing patients at risk, ordering appropriate diagnostic tests (such as low-dose CT scans), and referring patients to specialists if necessary. The analysis would involve researching local practices, examining their websites and patient reviews, and, where possible, contacting them directly to inquire about their lung cancer screening programs and referral processes. Practices with a demonstrated focus on early detection and patient education would receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The availability of telehealth services can provide patients with convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for managing symptoms, providing emotional support, and coordinating care with specialists. The analysis would assess the adoption of telemedicine by local PCPs, considering factors such as the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow. Practices actively embracing telehealth would be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to a patient’s overall well-being, especially during the stressful journey of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis can be significant, and access to mental health support can improve a patient's quality of life and potentially enhance their adherence to treatment plans. The analysis would examine the availability of mental health services within the 29684 area, including the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors. It would also assess the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referral programs. Practices that prioritize mental health support would be highly regarded.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted contributions of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant component, with a lower ratio (indicating better access) leading to a higher score. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would also contribute positively to the score. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in the context of lung cancer care. The final score would provide a relative ranking of the healthcare landscape within 29684, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

The analysis would also consider the availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance. While this analysis primarily focuses on primary care, the proximity of oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists is crucial for patients requiring advanced treatment. The analysis would identify the nearest cancer centers and assess the ease of access for residents of 29684. This information would inform the overall assessment of the healthcare ecosystem.

The methodology would involve a combination of data gathering and qualitative assessment. Publicly available data sources would be used to determine physician-to-patient ratios and identify healthcare facilities. Online searches, website reviews, and, where feasible, direct contact with practices would be used to gather information about screening programs, telemedicine adoption, and mental health services. The analysis would be conducted objectively, using a standardized scoring system to ensure consistency and fairness.

The limitations of the analysis should be acknowledged. The availability of data may vary, and some information may be incomplete or outdated. The analysis relies on publicly available information and may not capture all aspects of the healthcare landscape. The scoring system is subjective, and the weighting of different factors may be open to interpretation. However, the analysis will strive to provide a comprehensive and informative assessment of the healthcare resources available to lung cancer patients in 29684.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for the healthcare environment within ZIP code 29684, and specifically Starr, South Carolina, is a complex undertaking. It requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While the specific score would depend on the data collected and the weighting assigned to each factor, the analysis would provide a valuable overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer care. This information is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve access to quality care and improve outcomes for those affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 29684, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health resources, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare services and identifying potential areas for improvement.