29697, Williamston, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.53 percent of the residents in 29697 has some form of health insurance. 36.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.89 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 29697 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,205 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29697. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,532 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,149 health care providers accessible to residents in 29697, Williamston, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Williamston, SC (ZIP Code 29697)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources in Williamston, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29697), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced “Lung Cancer Score” analysis, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals facing this challenging disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Williamston, evaluating primary care availability is paramount. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including neighboring towns like Pelzer and Piedmont. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the American Medical Association (AMA) can provide insights into the concentration of PCPs. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, a critical first step in identifying potential lung cancer cases through early screening and symptom management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are equally important. The analysis considers factors like the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are frequently utilized by older adults, a demographic at higher risk for lung cancer. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the presence of extended office hours, and the ease of scheduling are also evaluated. Practices that offer comprehensive primary care services, including preventive screenings like lung cancer screening for eligible individuals (based on age and smoking history), are highly valued.

A critical component of this analysis is the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and thoracic surgeons is crucial for accurate diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer. The analysis identifies the location and proximity of these specialists to Williamston. The ability to quickly access these specialists can significantly impact patient outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of a local hospital or cancer center equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is crucial.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can reduce travel time and costs, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The analysis assesses the extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices in and around Williamston utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the ability to share medical records electronically. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are viewed more favorably in the “Lung Cancer Score” analysis.

Mental health support is often overlooked, but it plays a vital role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The analysis considers the availability of mental health resources in Williamston and the surrounding areas. This includes the presence of licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also evaluated. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are highly regarded.

Standout practices in Williamston and the surrounding areas are identified based on their commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. This includes practices that have a strong focus on preventive care, offer convenient appointment scheduling, utilize telemedicine effectively, and provide integrated mental health services. The analysis considers patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations from reputable organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality and innovation are recognized as leaders in the community.

The “Lung Cancer Score” analysis considers the overall healthcare infrastructure in Williamston. This includes the availability of transportation services for patients, such as public transportation, ride-sharing programs, and volunteer driver programs. The presence of community health centers and other resources that provide financial assistance or support services for cancer patients is also evaluated. The analysis aims to provide a holistic view of the healthcare landscape, considering all factors that impact the ability of individuals to access and receive quality lung cancer care.

The impact of physician-to-patient ratios is carefully considered. A low ratio can create significant barriers to access, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio can improve access, but it's essential to assess the quality of care provided by those physicians. The analysis evaluates the qualifications and experience of the physicians practicing in the area.

The assessment of primary care availability extends beyond the immediate ZIP code. The analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians in neighboring areas, such as Greenville, Anderson, and Easley, which are within a reasonable driving distance. This broader perspective provides a more comprehensive understanding of the access to care for residents of Williamston.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” analysis provides a detailed assessment of the healthcare resources available to individuals in Williamston, SC (ZIP Code 29697), focusing on factors critical for lung cancer care. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and standout practices. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for individuals seeking care and to highlight areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Williamston and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and community resources, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform to visualize and analyze geographic data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options.