29819, Bradley, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29819, Bradley, South Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.06 percent of the residents in 29819 has some form of health insurance. 30.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.04 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 29819 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 270 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29819. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 55 health care providers accessible to residents in 29819, Bradley, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 29819 & Bradley, SC

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 29819, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care, and specifically examines primary care availability in the town of Bradley, South Carolina. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, albeit an informal one, based on the available data and observed trends. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The primary care physician (PCP) is the cornerstone of preventative care, including early detection of lung cancer. Within the confines of ZIP code 29819, which encompasses portions of Edgefield County, the availability of PCPs is a critical starting point. Determining a precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing real-time data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, general observations can be made. Edgefield County, like many rural areas, often faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention. This can lead to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urbanized regions. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer.

Bradley, a small town within the ZIP code, likely experiences similar challenges. The availability of PCPs within Bradley itself might be limited, forcing residents to travel to nearby towns or cities for care. This geographic barrier can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within the immediate area is crucial. The need to travel long distances for specialized care adds to the burden on patients and can delay critical interventions. The distance to a comprehensive cancer center, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options, is a significant factor.

Standout practices within the area, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and early detection. This includes practices that actively screen for lung cancer, adhering to the guidelines set forth by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria, such as age and smoking history. Practices that proactively identify eligible patients and offer these screenings are demonstrating a higher level of commitment to lung cancer prevention. Furthermore, practices that emphasize patient education regarding smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices contribute to a reduction in lung cancer risk.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The use of telehealth platforms can bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, especially for those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better equipped to serve their patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth also allows for easier access to specialists who may not be physically located within the immediate area.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a critical component of overall well-being. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient care. This might involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with local support groups. Access to these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 29819, based on this assessment, is influenced by several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a significant role. The presence of practices actively involved in preventative care and early detection, including lung cancer screening, is also crucial. The distance to comprehensive cancer centers and the availability of support services further impact the score. Without specific, real-time data, a precise score cannot be provided. However, the analysis suggests that access to care may be a challenge in this rural area, requiring residents to proactively seek information and utilize available resources.

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score," several steps can be taken. Increased efforts to recruit and retain physicians, especially PCPs and specialists, are essential. Expanding the adoption of telemedicine technologies can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Integrating mental health services into the care model is crucial for supporting patients' emotional well-being. Increased public awareness campaigns regarding lung cancer prevention, early detection, and smoking cessation can empower individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment.

The town of Bradley, within the broader context of ZIP code 29819, faces specific challenges related to primary care access. Residents may need to travel outside of Bradley for routine medical care, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. The presence of mobile screening units or outreach programs that bring healthcare services directly to the community could help address this issue. Furthermore, partnerships with larger healthcare systems in nearby cities could improve access to specialists and advanced treatment options.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 29819, and specifically in Bradley, presents both challenges and opportunities related to lung cancer care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. Practices that prioritize preventative care, early detection, and patient support are demonstrating a commitment to improving patient outcomes. Continued efforts to improve access to care, expand the use of technology, and integrate mental health services are essential for creating a more supportive healthcare environment for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 29819 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to healthcare facilities, consider exploring the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.