29718, Jefferson, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29718, Jefferson, South Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.72 percent of the residents in 29718 has some form of health insurance. 39.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.57 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 29718 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,022 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29718. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 676 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 54 health care providers accessible to residents in 29718, Jefferson, South Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 29718 and primary care access in Jefferson, focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes and overall healthcare quality. This evaluation considers physician availability, resource allocation, and innovative approaches to care delivery, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.

The geographic focus of 29718, likely encompassing a specific community, necessitates a localized approach to understanding lung cancer care. A key element is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients, crucial for early detection through screening and prompt referral to specialists if lung cancer is suspected. The analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code, comparing it to regional and national averages. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could potentially lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another vital component. These specialists are directly involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lung cancer. The analysis examines the concentration of these specialists within and near 29718, assessing the ease of access for patients requiring specialized care. Travel time, appointment wait times, and the availability of sub-specialties (e.g., interventional pulmonology) are considered.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is influenced by the resources available within the healthcare system. This includes access to advanced diagnostic tools such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, as recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for high-risk individuals. The analysis investigates the availability of these screening services within the ZIP code and the broader region, along with the presence of comprehensive cancer centers equipped with state-of-the-art treatment modalities, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly relevant, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by providing remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. The analysis assesses the extent to which practices in 29718 and Jefferson have embraced telemedicine for lung cancer care, including the availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and online support groups.

Mental health support is an integral aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis examines the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare system, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in cancer care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is also considered.

In Jefferson, the analysis shifts to the broader context of primary care availability. The primary care physician-to-patient ratio in Jefferson is a critical indicator of access to care. A shortage of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses of lung cancer and other conditions. The analysis compares Jefferson’s ratio to state and national benchmarks, identifying potential areas of concern.

The analysis considers the presence of standout primary care practices in Jefferson. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their use of innovative technologies, or their integration of mental health services. The analysis identifies any practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive care, including those that actively promote lung cancer screening and provide support for patients undergoing treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis examines the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are essential for prevention and improved outcomes. The analysis assesses the availability of smoking cessation programs within Jefferson, including counseling services, medication assistance, and educational materials. The integration of these programs into primary care practices is also considered.

The analysis also assesses the presence of community-based resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and patient advocacy organizations. These resources can provide invaluable support for patients and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of lung cancer. The analysis identifies any such resources available within Jefferson and the surrounding area.

In conclusion, the assessment of lung cancer care in 29718 and primary care availability in Jefferson requires a multifaceted approach. It involves examining physician availability, resource allocation, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 29718 and Jefferson, including physician locations, facility locations, and resource distribution, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of lung cancer care and primary care services.