27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.30 percent of the residents in 27109 has some form of health insurance. 4.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.17 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 27109 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 674 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 96 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27109. An estimate of 74 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,551 health care providers accessible to residents in 27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, a complex and multifaceted field, demands a high degree of expertise and accessibility. This analysis examines the landscape of primary care physicians in Winston-Salem's 27109 ZIP code, evaluating their potential impact on lung cancer care. We will explore factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are constantly fluctuating and difficult to pinpoint without access to proprietary databases, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau provides a general overview. ZIP code 27109, serving a specific segment of Winston-Salem, likely presents a unique ratio based on its demographics and the concentration of medical facilities. A thorough analysis would need to consider not only the number of primary care physicians but also the availability of specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, crucial for lung cancer care. Furthermore, the presence of teaching hospitals and large medical groups can significantly influence access, as they often have a greater capacity to serve a larger patient population.

Standout practices within the 27109 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in primary care. This commitment often manifests in several ways. First, these practices typically employ board-certified physicians and maintain a highly trained support staff, including nurses, medical assistants, and administrative personnel. Second, they invest in advanced diagnostic equipment and technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information exchange and improve care coordination. Third, these practices often participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which helps them to meet and exceed standards of care. Fourth, standout practices often have a strong focus on preventative care, including regular screenings for lung cancer, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This preventative approach is critical for early detection, which dramatically improves the chances of successful treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, and its impact on lung cancer care is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those seeking follow-up care after treatment. The availability of telemedicine services in the 27109 ZIP code can vary significantly depending on the individual practice. Some practices have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online access to patient portals. Others may offer limited telemedicine services or have yet to adopt this technology. The widespread adoption of telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce wait times, and enhance patient convenience, all of which can positively impact the experience of individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Patients often need support to cope with the physical and emotional burdens of treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The availability of mental health resources within the 27109 ZIP code is therefore crucial. This includes access to licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care. Furthermore, integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals are embedded within primary care practices, can improve access and coordination of care.

Evaluating the availability of these resources is complex. It requires examining the practices' websites, contacting their offices directly, and consulting online directories. Patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. A comprehensive analysis would need to consider the presence of support groups, such as those offered by the American Lung Association or the Cancer Research Institute. It would also need to assess the availability of palliative care services, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses.

The overall ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for primary care in the 27109 ZIP code, therefore, is a composite metric. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for lung cancer care, characterized by good access to physicians, high-quality services, and comprehensive support. A low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care and a need for improvement. The specific score would be determined by a weighted assessment of these factors, with each factor assigned a relative importance based on its impact on patient outcomes.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 27109 ZIP code and across Winston-Salem, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed information on physician locations, practice characteristics, and healthcare resource availability, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.