29934, Pineland, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29934, Pineland, South Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.49 percent of the residents in 29934 has some form of health insurance. 36.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.20 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 29934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29934. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 322 health care providers accessible to residents in 29934, Pineland, South Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 29934 (Pineland, South Carolina), focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection and effective management of lung cancer, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Pineland's healthcare infrastructure is assessed by examining the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provides insights into the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data is then analyzed in conjunction with the population size of Pineland to calculate a physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly hinder access to preventative screenings, early diagnosis, and timely referrals to specialists, all critical for successful lung cancer treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care, which is the first line of defense in the fight against this disease.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices in Pineland are examined. This includes assessing the types of practices available, such as solo practices, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems. Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of board-certified physicians is also a key indicator of quality. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education programs related to lung cancer prevention and screening are also given a higher rating. These practices are often more proactive in identifying at-risk individuals and promoting early detection.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, including virtual visits, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are viewed favorably. This technology allows for more frequent check-ins, easier access to specialists, and improved patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine also extends the reach of specialists, bringing their expertise to patients who might otherwise have limited access.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is assessed. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are given a higher rating. This integration can involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local mental health providers, or partnerships with support organizations. The presence of these resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their illness and improve their overall quality of life.

The evaluation of "standout practices" involves identifying those that excel in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and coordinated care. These practices may have implemented specific protocols for lung cancer screening, such as utilizing low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. They may also have dedicated patient navigators who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer treatment are also considered to be at the forefront of care.

The assessment also considers the availability of resources beyond primary care. This includes the proximity of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The presence of local hospitals with advanced imaging capabilities and cancer treatment centers is also evaluated. The availability of these resources ensures that patients have access to the full spectrum of care, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up. The ease of access to these resources is a key determinant of the overall quality of care.

In Pineland, the availability of these resources is evaluated based on the information available from public sources. This includes the websites of local hospitals, clinics, and physician practices. Information is also gathered from medical directories and databases. The goal is to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in the area.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" analysis is a composite measure that reflects the overall quality of care available in Pineland. This score is based on the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weighting of each factor is determined based on its relative importance in providing effective lung cancer care. The score is then used to rank the practices in the area.

The overall score is a snapshot in time, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Practices that are committed to continuous improvement are likely to see their scores increase over time. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients and healthcare providers alike.

This analysis is intended to provide an overview of the healthcare landscape in Pineland and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their individual needs and treatment options.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pineland, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome.