27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.45 percent of the residents in 27022 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.52 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 27022 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 135 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27022. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 487 health care providers accessible to residents in 27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lawsonville, NC (ZIP Code 27022)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of factors impacting lung cancer care within ZIP code 27022, specifically focusing on Lawsonville, North Carolina. It considers physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine integration, and mental health support – all critical components in the fight against this devastating disease. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Lawsonville, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potential shortage of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per resident, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 27022 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential. This data provides a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are crucial. Identifying standout practices within Lawsonville is vital. These practices would ideally demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history). This includes offering or readily facilitating low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for eligible individuals. Examining the practices' patient education materials and their commitment to smoking cessation programs is also important. These programs, when effectively implemented, can significantly reduce the risk of developing lung cancer.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 27022 is a key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Do these practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? The ability to connect patients with specialists remotely, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly improve care coordination and reduce the need for lengthy travel. Investigating the availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered and the technologies used, is crucial.

Early diagnosis is critical for successful lung cancer treatment. The availability of diagnostic resources, such as imaging centers (CT scans, PET scans) and pathology labs, within a reasonable distance from Lawsonville significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Travel time to these facilities can be a major barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation challenges. Assessing the proximity and accessibility of these diagnostic services is a vital part of the analysis.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of comprehensive cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the availability of mental health resources within Lawsonville and the surrounding areas. Are there therapists, counselors, or support groups specializing in cancer care? Are these resources easily accessible and affordable? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score should evaluate the presence of patient navigators. These individuals play a vital role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, helping them access resources, and coordinating appointments. The availability of patient navigators, whether through primary care practices, hospitals, or cancer support organizations, can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized cancer care. While Lawsonville may not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to such facilities in larger towns or cities is important. Assessing the travel time to these centers, the types of services offered (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and the availability of clinical trials is essential. Access to specialized care is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Lawsonville (27022) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, access to diagnostic services, the availability of mental health support, and the proximity to specialized cancer care all contribute to the overall score. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care, while a high score would suggest a more robust and supportive healthcare environment. A thorough investigation of each of these factors is necessary to accurately assess the current state of lung cancer care in Lawsonville.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lawsonville, including the locations of primary care practices, diagnostic facilities, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas for improvement. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the factors impacting lung cancer care in your community.