27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.28 percent of the residents in 27207 has some form of health insurance. 42.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.18 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 27207 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 550 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27207. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 960 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer-related care for residents of ZIP code 27207 (Asheboro, NC) and the primary care landscape in the nearby town of Bear Creek, considering factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This “Lung Cancer Score” considers physician availability, technological integration, and support services, providing a nuanced view beyond simple metrics.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). The availability of PCPs in Bear Creek is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio in Bear Creek, while not readily available as a precise statistic, needs careful consideration. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. The distance patients must travel to access primary care services is another significant factor. Longer travel times can create barriers to care, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals.

Within ZIP code 27207, the concentration of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is of paramount importance. A robust specialist network is vital for timely diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The presence of a local hospital with advanced imaging capabilities, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is also essential for accurate and efficient diagnosis. The availability of these resources within the community minimizes the need for patients to travel long distances for critical procedures.

Standout practices within the 27207 ZIP code should be evaluated based on several criteria. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection through proactive screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, deserve recognition. The adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols and participation in clinical trials are further indicators of quality. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses specializing in oncology, ensures comprehensive care. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience, reflecting factors like communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care and reduce travel burdens. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering convenient and accessible options for patients, should be highly regarded. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, providing access to expertise that may not be readily available locally.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Access to mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to qualified providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Support groups, counseling services, and access to palliative care are vital for managing the emotional challenges associated with the disease. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

The primary care landscape in Bear Creek plays a crucial role in early detection and preventative care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate lung cancer. Their ability to recognize these symptoms, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and make timely referrals to specialists is critical. PCPs should be educated about the latest lung cancer screening guidelines and encouraged to implement screening programs for eligible patients.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems are important. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information among healthcare providers, improving communication and coordination of care. Interoperability allows for seamless data exchange between different healthcare systems, ensuring that all providers have access to the patient's complete medical history. This can streamline the diagnostic process and improve treatment outcomes.

The availability of patient education materials and resources is another key factor. Practices should provide patients with clear, concise information about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening options, and treatment modalities. This empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. Educational materials should be available in multiple formats, including written materials, online resources, and videos, to cater to different learning styles.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for the area encompassing 27207 and the surrounding region of Bear Creek would be a composite measure of all these factors. It would reflect the availability of physicians, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score would also consider the accessibility of primary care in Bear Creek and the presence of support services.

The analysis highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to lung cancer care, emphasizing the need for access to qualified physicians, advanced diagnostic capabilities, comprehensive support services, and the integration of technology. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that promotes early detection, timely treatment, and holistic patient well-being. The availability of resources, the quality of care, and the overall patient experience are all critical components of a successful lung cancer care system.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 27207 ZIP code and Bear Creek, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, helping you to understand the accessibility of care in your community.