29904, Beaufort, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29904, Beaufort, South Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 29904 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 29904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 29904, Beaufort, South Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29904 and Primary Care Availability in Beaufort, SC**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area, such as ZIP Code 29904 in Beaufort, South Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors impacting the early detection and treatment of lung cancer. These elements combine to form a “Lung Cancer Score,” reflecting the community’s readiness to address this serious disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Beaufort, the availability of PCPs is a critical metric. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from local healthcare providers, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), and national databases like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) are essential to determine this ratio accurately. This data should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the local physician workforce and population demographics.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is vital. Certain practices may stand out due to their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), deserve recognition. This involves evaluating their adherence to national guidelines for screening, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors and proactively schedule screenings is another indicator of quality. Patient reviews and feedback also provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the ease of access, communication, and the overall level of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Beaufort can significantly impact lung cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expediting diagnoses and treatment plans. Practices that offer telehealth appointments for primary care visits, follow-up consultations, and even mental health services demonstrate a commitment to expanding access. The availability of telehealth platforms, the training of physicians in telehealth technologies, and the accessibility of reliable internet connectivity within the community are all essential components of a successful telemedicine program.

The link between mental health and cancer care is increasingly recognized. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a crucial component of a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score.” Assessing the availability of mental health professionals within the community, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, and the existence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families are essential. The proximity of these resources and their accessibility, including insurance coverage and cost considerations, are also vital factors.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 29904 should be evaluated based on the criteria outlined above. Identifying standout practices that excel in preventative care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration can serve as models for others to emulate. This includes recognizing practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, educate patients about lung cancer risks and screening options, and provide comprehensive support services.

A comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 29904 should incorporate all these factors. The score should be based on a weighted system, with each factor (physician-to-patient ratio, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources) contributing to the overall assessment. The weighting should reflect the relative importance of each factor in influencing lung cancer outcomes. This score can then be compared to other areas, providing a benchmark for improvement.

The Beaufort community should be encouraged to support initiatives that improve healthcare access and quality. This includes advocating for policies that promote the recruitment and retention of physicians, expanding telemedicine infrastructure, and increasing access to mental health services. Community involvement, including patient advocacy groups and local health organizations, is crucial in driving these efforts.

The data used to create the “Lung Cancer Score” should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking physician workforce changes, monitoring telemedicine adoption rates, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. Regular updates ensure the score remains relevant and provides an accurate reflection of the community's readiness to address lung cancer.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” is a dynamic assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 29904. By evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the community's capacity to address lung cancer. This analysis provides a framework for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for residents.

For a visual representation of this data, including interactive maps of physician locations, primary care availability, and mental health resource locations, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps.