29692, Ware Shoals, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29692, Ware Shoals, South Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.50 percent of the residents in 29692 has some form of health insurance. 49.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.39 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 29692 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,423 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29692. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 902 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,379 health care providers accessible to residents in 29692, Ware Shoals, South Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ware Shoals, SC (ZIP Code 29692)**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape of Ware Shoals, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29692), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide an understanding of the available resources and identify areas for potential improvement. The analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and quality primary care. In Ware Shoals, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Data from state and national sources, combined with local information, is needed to determine the precise ratio within the 29692 ZIP code. This ratio is then compared to state and national averages to understand the relative availability of primary care services.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is vital. This involves evaluating the practices within the area. Are there any standout practices known for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening? Do these practices utilize evidence-based guidelines for early detection, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals? Investigating the practices' affiliations with larger healthcare systems or hospitals can provide insights into their access to resources and specialists. Furthermore, examining patient satisfaction scores and reviews offers a valuable perspective on the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Ware Shoals plays a crucial role in access to care. Does the community have access to virtual consultations with primary care physicians? Are specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, available through telehealth platforms? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to receive timely consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support without traveling long distances. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the local healthcare system is a key indicator of accessibility.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing experiences. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists? Are there support groups or programs specifically designed for cancer patients and their families? Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of the disease. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is an essential aspect of this analysis.

The presence of specialized services, such as pulmonology and oncology, within or near Ware Shoals, is a major factor. If these specialists are not readily available, patients might need to travel to larger cities for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This can create logistical and financial burdens, potentially impacting the timeliness and quality of care. Identifying the location of the nearest pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, along with their affiliations and specialties, is crucial.

The presence of a local hospital or medical center is also important. The availability of diagnostic imaging equipment, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is essential for lung cancer detection and staging. The hospital's ability to provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions is also critical. Assessing the hospital's accreditations, its affiliations with larger cancer centers, and its overall reputation can provide insights into the quality of care available.

The evaluation of healthcare resources should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation can significantly impact patients' ability to access care. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. Data on socioeconomic factors, combined with information on healthcare resources, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by patients in Ware Shoals.

The analysis also considers the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and connecting them with resources. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve patients' experience and outcomes. Identifying the availability of these services and their scope of support is essential.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the community’s awareness of lung cancer prevention and early detection. Are there public health campaigns or educational programs focused on smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and the importance of lung cancer screening? Raising awareness can empower individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health and seek early detection.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape of Ware Shoals, SC (ZIP Code 29692), requires a multifaceted approach to assess its ability to support lung cancer patients. Evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support is crucial. Understanding the socioeconomic factors and the community’s awareness of lung cancer prevention are also vital components. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources in Ware Shoals, SC (ZIP Code 29692), including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.