27233, Climax, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27233, Climax, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.50 percent of the residents in 27233 has some form of health insurance. 28.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.12 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 27233 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 786 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27233. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 27233, Climax, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27233 and Primary Care Availability in Climax, NC**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly in the context of lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and characteristics of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 27233 (which encompasses Climax, NC) and evaluates their potential impact on lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We consider physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness in relation to lung cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care, including preventive screenings for lung cancer. In ZIP code 27233, the exact physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs requires detailed data analysis, which may not be publicly available. However, assessing the number of PCPs serving the area and comparing it to the population size provides a preliminary understanding. Further research should include the age and health status of the population, as older populations and those with pre-existing conditions often require more frequent medical attention.

Standout practices can significantly influence the quality of care. These practices may be distinguished by their commitment to preventive care, including regular screenings for high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of smoking. They may also excel in coordinating care, ensuring seamless transitions between primary care, pulmonology, oncology, and other specialists. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives often demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements, potentially offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, physician ratings, and the practices' participation in quality improvement programs.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Climax. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. It can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. Practices that have embraced telemedicine may offer remote consultations, virtual monitoring, and online patient portals, enhancing patient convenience and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Evaluating telemedicine adoption requires examining the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the technological infrastructure in place.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for providing patients with support and coping mechanisms. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing mental health resource availability involves identifying the presence of mental health professionals within the practice or network, the availability of mental health support groups, and the ease with which patients can access these resources.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is a critical factor in lung cancer treatment. While PCPs play a vital role in early detection and referral, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of specialists to ZIP code 27233 and the ease of referral from PCPs are important considerations. This assessment requires mapping the locations of pulmonologists and oncologists, evaluating the referral processes, and determining the wait times for appointments.

The socio-economic characteristics of the population in ZIP code 27233 can also influence healthcare access and outcomes. Factors such as income, education, and insurance coverage can impact a patient's ability to access care, adhere to treatment plans, and receive necessary support. Understanding the socio-economic profile of the community is essential for identifying potential barriers to care and developing targeted interventions. This requires analyzing demographic data, including income levels, insurance coverage rates, and educational attainment.

Furthermore, assessing the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and financial assistance programs, is crucial. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources. Support groups provide emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. Financial assistance programs can help patients afford the costs of treatment, medications, and other expenses. Identifying the availability of these support services involves researching local organizations and programs that provide these resources.

The effectiveness of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is also a key consideration. PCPs play a crucial role in recommending and facilitating these screenings for high-risk individuals. Evaluating the rates of LDCT screenings in ZIP code 27233 and assessing the practices' adherence to screening guidelines can provide insights into the effectiveness of preventive care efforts. This requires reviewing screening rates, examining the practices' screening protocols, and assessing their compliance with national guidelines.

Finally, the overall healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of hospitals, imaging centers, and other medical facilities, impacts the quality and accessibility of care. The proximity of these facilities to ZIP code 27233 and the quality of their services are important factors. This requires mapping the locations of medical facilities, evaluating their services, and assessing their quality ratings.

In conclusion, a comprehensive lung cancer score analysis for doctors in ZIP code 27233 and primary care availability in Climax, NC, requires a detailed assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialists, socio-economic factors, support services, screening programs, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. This multifaceted approach provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare data for ZIP code 27233 and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access, identify areas with limited resources, and highlight potential disparities in care.