27249, Gibsonville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27249, Gibsonville, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.44 percent of the residents in 27249 has some form of health insurance. 37.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.91 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 27249 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,800 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27249. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,733 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,564 health care providers accessible to residents in 27249, Gibsonville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Gibsonville, NC (ZIP Code 27249)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27249 (Gibsonville, North Carolina), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and its capacity to support individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

Gibsonville, a town in Alamance County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger urban centers like Greensboro and Burlington influences access to specialized medical services. However, the availability of primary care, a crucial entry point for early detection and management of lung cancer, is a critical factor in this evaluation.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 27249 is essential. This analysis requires gathering information from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population. A low ratio would be a red flag, potentially signaling a need for increased recruitment of primary care physicians or expansion of existing practices.

The existence of standout practices within Gibsonville is another key element. "Standout" is defined here by several factors. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including offering regular lung cancer screenings (especially for high-risk individuals), are highly valued. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also a positive attribute. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer treatment and prevention would also be considered standouts, signifying a dedication to cutting-edge care. Identifying these practices involves researching local healthcare directories, reviewing online patient reviews, and, ideally, conducting interviews with local healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to mental health support. The level of telemedicine adoption within Gibsonville's primary care practices and specialist networks is crucial. This requires investigating which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and secure online portals for patient communication.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease, including anxiety, depression, and fear, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Gibsonville area is therefore a vital component of this assessment. This analysis will look for the presence of mental health providers within the ZIP code or nearby, as well as the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is a key indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

Specific examples of practices within Gibsonville and the surrounding areas that offer excellent care are difficult to determine without a detailed investigation. However, the presence of larger healthcare systems in nearby Burlington and Greensboro, such as Cone Health or Duke Health, likely provides access to specialized lung cancer care, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The accessibility of these specialists from Gibsonville is a crucial consideration. The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources that aid in the complex journey of lung cancer treatment is also important.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for Gibsonville (ZIP code 27249) is not a simple numerical value. Instead, it is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout primary care practices with a strong focus on preventative care and early detection, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

This analysis is not exhaustive. It requires continuous updating as healthcare landscapes evolve. The information gathered should be used to advocate for improved healthcare access and quality within the community. The findings can inform policy decisions, resource allocation, and community health initiatives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gibsonville and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the healthcare resources available in your area.