27235, Colfax, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 27235 has some form of health insurance. 28.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.64 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 27235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 818 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,332 health care providers accessible to residents in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on assessing the healthcare landscape in Colfax, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27235), specifically concerning lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. This is a complex evaluation, considering various factors influencing patient outcomes, from the availability of specialized physicians to the integration of modern technologies and the presence of supportive mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare system.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric for assessing healthcare accessibility. In Colfax, understanding the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Department of Health & Human Services can be utilized to determine these ratios. A low physician-to-patient ratio, especially for specialists, can indicate potential delays in diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. This directly impacts the stage at which the disease is identified, significantly affecting survival rates. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care.

The presence of standout practices within Colfax is another important consideration. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, innovative treatment approaches, and a commitment to community health. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient satisfaction scores, analyzing the range of services offered (e.g., early detection programs, advanced imaging capabilities, and access to clinical trials), and evaluating their adherence to established clinical guidelines. These practices can serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area. They may be affiliated with larger healthcare systems or operate independently, each model having its own advantages and disadvantages.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its presence in Colfax is a key factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and the use of digital health tools. This is particularly relevant for lung cancer patients, who may require frequent follow-up appointments and access to support services. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and enhance overall care coordination.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging for patients and their families. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Colfax includes assessing the presence of licensed therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Integration of mental health services into primary care and oncology practices can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological aspects of the disease.

Primary care availability in Colfax is the foundation of healthcare access. The number of PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, and their office hours directly impact the ability of residents to receive preventative care, early diagnosis, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in clinics can also improve access. Analyzing wait times for appointments and the availability of after-hours care provides a more complete picture of primary care accessibility.

Specific practices in Colfax, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare networks or independent practices, should be individually assessed. This evaluation should include their physician-to-patient ratios, the range of services offered, their telemedicine capabilities, and their integration of mental health resources. Patient reviews, online presence, and affiliations with cancer centers can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

The analysis also considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs. Early detection is critical for improving survival rates. Assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening programs, eligibility criteria, and the ease of access to these programs is important. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening are contributing significantly to improved patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the healthcare providers in Colfax. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can influence healthcare access and outcomes. Understanding these demographics allows for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare system.

The integration of data from various sources is essential for a comprehensive analysis. This includes data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and private healthcare data providers. Combining this data with local knowledge and insights from healthcare professionals provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape in Colfax.

The analysis also considers the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. This includes patient navigation programs, support groups, and access to financial assistance programs. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, manage their symptoms, and cope with the emotional and financial burdens of the disease.

The assessment of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Colfax should also address the challenges of healthcare disparities. Certain populations may face greater barriers to accessing care, leading to poorer outcomes. Identifying and addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents.

Finally, the analysis should consider the future of healthcare in Colfax. This includes assessing the potential impact of new technologies, changes in healthcare policy, and the evolving needs of the community. Understanding these trends allows for proactive planning and the development of strategies to improve healthcare access and outcomes.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Colfax and other areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, offering valuable insights into healthcare access, physician distribution, and other key factors.