27007, Ararat, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27007, Ararat, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.55 percent of the residents in 27007 has some form of health insurance. 34.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.63 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 27007 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 520 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27007. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 465 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,110 health care providers accessible to residents in 27007, Ararat, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ararat, NC (ZIP Code 27007)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer-related care within ZIP Code 27007 (Ararat, North Carolina), focusing on primary care access and the overall healthcare landscape. The objective is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" understanding, encompassing physician availability, specific practice strengths, telemedicine utilization, and the integration of mental health services – all crucial elements in the holistic management of this disease. The analysis considers the specific context of a rural community, where access to specialized care can be a significant challenge.

Ararat, nestled within Surry County, presents a unique healthcare environment. The geographical isolation and the demographics of the population influence the delivery and accessibility of medical services. The analysis will consider these factors in its assessment.

The foundation of any strong lung cancer care system lies in robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and for coordinating subsequent specialist referrals. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, impacting timely diagnosis and treatment. While precise data on the current PCP-to-patient ratio within 27007 requires in-depth, real-time data analysis, publicly available information, such as the County Health Rankings, can provide valuable insights into the broader Surry County situation. This data will be cross-referenced with local practice information.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. The analysis will consider factors such as the presence of board-certified PCPs, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (particularly for individuals with a smoking history), and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide patient education materials will receive higher consideration.

Identifying standout practices within the 27007 ZIP code is a key aspect of this analysis. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in several key areas. This involves evaluating their approach to patient care, their commitment to preventative measures, and their ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The evaluation will consider patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the availability of specialized services, even if they are provided through partnerships with larger healthcare systems in the region.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists, follow-up consultations, and educational resources. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine services within the 27007 ZIP code, including the types of services offered (e.g., specialist consultations, remote monitoring), the platforms used, and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine to enhance patient care will be recognized.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally challenging experiences. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources is a critical element of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals, the referral pathways to mental health specialists, and the availability of support groups or counseling services for patients and their families. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients will be viewed favorably.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is crucial for lung cancer treatment. While these specialists may not be directly located within 27007, the analysis will assess the accessibility of these specialists through referral networks and partnerships with larger healthcare systems in the region. The travel time to these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments will be considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single numerical value but a comprehensive assessment. It considers the interconnectedness of various factors, from primary care access to the availability of mental health resources. The score reflects the overall ability of the healthcare system within 27007 to effectively address the needs of lung cancer patients.

The analysis will also consider the role of community resources, such as support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and local health initiatives. These resources can play a vital role in providing emotional support, education, and practical assistance to patients and their families. The analysis will evaluate the availability and accessibility of these resources within the community.

The overall goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 27007 concerning lung cancer care. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that individuals diagnosed with lung cancer receive the best possible care.

The assessment will also consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy, on lung cancer outcomes. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans.

This analysis is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and policies emerging regularly. Therefore, it is essential to regularly update this assessment to reflect the latest developments.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing the healthcare landscape in 27007, including physician locations, practice information, and resource availability, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.