27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.54 percent of the residents in 27106 has some form of health insurance. 32.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.88 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 27106 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,372 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27106. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,751 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,553 health care providers accessible to residents in 27106, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27106 and Primary Care Availability in Winston-Salem**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP Code 27106 and the broader context of primary care availability in Winston-Salem requires a multi-faceted approach. The objective is to assess the resources available to patients, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer, focusing on physician access, innovative care models, and supportive services. This analysis will culminate in a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ assessment, providing a snapshot of the current state and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Winston-Salem, the PCP-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early detection and treatment. While precise, real-time data on physician-to-patient ratios fluctuates, publicly available resources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Area Health Resources Files (AHRF) can offer valuable insights. These files provide data on the number of physicians in specific specialties, including primary care, within defined geographic areas. Examining this data, and supplementing it with information from local healthcare networks, will provide a clearer picture of access within 27106 and the surrounding areas.

Within ZIP Code 27106, the presence of specialized lung cancer care is critical. This includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists. The concentration of these specialists, and their accessibility, directly impacts patient outcomes. Are there dedicated lung cancer screening programs? Are there established referral pathways from primary care physicians to these specialists? The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, such as those affiliated with larger hospital systems in Winston-Salem, would significantly improve the overall score. These centers often offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced diagnostic tools, and clinical trials, all of which are vital for optimal lung cancer management.

Beyond the number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing the adoption of evidence-based practices, the utilization of advanced technologies, and the overall patient experience. Does the healthcare system prioritize early detection through lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals? Are patients actively educated about risk factors and prevention strategies? The presence of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, is another indicator of quality. These navigators can assist with appointments, insurance issues, and access to supportive services.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in 27106 can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telehealth options, and the ease with which patients can access these services, is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, is crucial for patients' well-being. Are there integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices or cancer centers? Are patients screened for depression and anxiety? The presence of these resources significantly enhances the overall quality of care and contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices in 27106 and Winston-Salem will likely demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, technological innovation, and community outreach. These practices may have implemented electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between providers. They might offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve access. They may also actively participate in community health initiatives, such as lung cancer screening events or educational programs. Identifying these standout practices, and understanding their best practices, can help to inform the development of strategies to improve the overall healthcare landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of physicians, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be relative, comparing the healthcare environment in 27106 to benchmarks and standards of care. The score will be based on a combination of publicly available data, information from local healthcare providers, and expert opinion.

This analysis will consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Factors such as income, education, and insurance coverage can significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis will consider how these factors impact access to care within 27106 and Winston-Salem.

The analysis will also consider the role of community organizations and support groups in providing resources and assistance to lung cancer patients and their families. These organizations can provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance, such as transportation to appointments or financial aid. The presence and effectiveness of these organizations will be factored into the Lung Cancer Score.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The Lung Cancer Score analysis should be periodically updated to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the implementation of new care models. This ongoing assessment will help to ensure that patients in 27106 and Winston-Salem have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to patients in 27106 and Winston-Salem. This will include a detailed assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The Lung Cancer Score will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas, including ZIP Code 27106, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can reveal patterns and insights related to physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available in your community.**