27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Belews Creek, NC (ZIP Code 27009)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 27009) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability and quality of primary care, the potential for early detection and treatment, and the supportive resources available to patients. This analysis will provide a "Lung Cancer Score" understanding, considering factors crucial for patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. In Belews Creek, primary care availability is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code and the surrounding areas provides a preliminary view. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, including those vital for lung cancer detection. Information on the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 27009 ZIP code and the average patient load per physician is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can offer insight into these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. We must evaluate the practices within the area. Are they patient-centered medical homes? Do they have a proven track record of preventative care, including regular screenings for at-risk individuals? What is the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability? Practices that embrace EHRs and share information seamlessly can improve care coordination, which is particularly important for lung cancer patients who often require a multidisciplinary approach.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. Telemedicine offers a potential solution for overcoming geographical barriers and enhancing access to care. Does the primary care network in Belews Creek offer telehealth appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up care? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in remote areas. The availability of telehealth consultations with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, would be highly advantageous.

Early detection is paramount in lung cancer treatment. The availability of screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is a crucial factor. Does the primary care network actively promote and facilitate these screenings? Are they following the guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? The presence of a local imaging center that offers LDCT scans is a significant advantage.

Once a diagnosis is made, patients need access to specialized care. While Belews Creek may not have a comprehensive cancer center, the proximity to such facilities is essential. The distance to the nearest hospitals with oncology departments and radiation therapy services is a crucial consideration. Are there established referral pathways between primary care physicians in Belews Creek and these specialist centers? The ease of navigation through the healthcare system is essential for patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a vital role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can bring about significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the community is a crucial factor. Does the primary care network offer integrated behavioral health services? Are there partnerships with local mental health providers? Access to these resources can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Standout practices in the area should be highlighted. These practices might excel in patient communication, offer extended hours, have a strong focus on preventative care, or have a demonstrated commitment to patient education. Information about patient satisfaction scores, if available, can also be a valuable indicator of quality.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Belews Creek, NC (27009) is a complex calculation. It is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment based on the factors mentioned above. A high score would indicate strong primary care availability, robust screening programs, access to specialized cancer care, the adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would suggest challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes.

The analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors. The demographics of Belews Creek, including income levels, education levels, and access to transportation, can influence access to healthcare. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable care for all residents.

The overall Lung Cancer Score is dynamic. It can change as healthcare providers adapt to new guidelines, adopt new technologies, and respond to the needs of their patients. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential for improving the quality of care and patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belews Creek, NC, and to explore the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive way to visualize the data and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare services.