27127, Winston Salem, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27127, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.29 percent of the residents in 27127 has some form of health insurance. 36.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.07 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 27127 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,865 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 96 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27127. An estimate of 74 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,201 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,511 health care providers accessible to residents in 27127, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Winston Salem, NC (ZIP Code 27127)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within Winston Salem, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27127 ZIP code, and considering the broader context of primary care availability. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the system. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the quality of lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer treatment rests on timely diagnosis and access to comprehensive care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in this process, acting as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs, therefore, significantly impacts early detection and referral rates. In Winston Salem, and particularly within the 27127 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the general trend is important. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient, potentially impacting the thoroughness of initial assessments. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the 27127 area matters. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient PCPs accepting new patients, and what is the average wait time for an appointment? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility of primary care. The presence of community health centers and free clinics, which often serve vulnerable populations, can also significantly impact the landscape. These facilities can help ensure that individuals regardless of their socioeconomic status have access to essential primary care services.

Within the 27127 ZIP code, we can identify standout practices that excel in providing comprehensive care. These practices often distinguish themselves through several key characteristics. They may have a multidisciplinary approach, integrating pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to streamline patient care. They may also have a strong focus on patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the potential side effects of therapy. Furthermore, these practices may actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. In the context of lung cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the 27127 area is a crucial indicator of accessibility and patient convenience. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater flexibility and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for routine appointments. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support is also crucial, as a cancer diagnosis can significantly impact patients' emotional well-being.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is vital for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The availability of these resources within the 27127 ZIP code, and their integration with oncology services, is a critical factor in evaluating the quality of care. Are there readily available mental health services within the practices or through referrals? Are there support groups and educational programs that address the psychological needs of patients and their families?

Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves assessing not only the number of providers but also the types of services offered. Individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management are all important components of mental health care. The integration of mental health services with oncology services can significantly improve patient outcomes. This integration can take various forms, such as co-locating mental health professionals within oncology practices or establishing seamless referral pathways. The ability of patients to access mental health support, in a timely and convenient manner, is a key indicator of the quality of care.

The assessment of lung cancer care within the 27127 ZIP code also requires considering the availability of specialized services. This includes access to pulmonologists, who are experts in diagnosing and treating lung diseases, and oncologists, who specialize in cancer treatment. The presence of radiation therapy facilities, surgical centers, and other specialized resources is also essential. The proximity of these services to the patient population is a crucial factor, as travel distance can impact access to care and patient convenience.

The quality of lung cancer care is also affected by the availability of supportive care services. These services include palliative care, which focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, and rehabilitation services, which can help patients recover from the physical effects of treatment. Access to these services can significantly improve the overall well-being of patients and enhance their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment. The integration of supportive care services into the overall treatment plan is a key indicator of comprehensive care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care within the 27127 ZIP code involves a multifaceted evaluation. It requires considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of specialized and supportive care services. By understanding these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas for improvement. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in the 27127 area, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses within the system.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winston Salem, and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed geographic data and analysis, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area.