27253, Graham, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27253, Graham, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.23 percent of the residents in 27253 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.95 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 27253 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,710 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27253. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,720 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 27253, Graham, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Graham, NC (ZIP Code 27253)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 27253 (Graham, North Carolina), focusing on factors critical for lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Graham, NC, serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. The availability of primary care physicians is particularly critical, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. A robust primary care network, with readily accessible physicians, is essential for early detection of lung cancer through regular checkups and screenings. This also allows for timely referrals to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, if any abnormalities are detected.

Standout practices within the Graham area often demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care. These practices may distinguish themselves through their adoption of evidence-based screening protocols, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. They may also excel in patient education, providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection. Further, these practices often have streamlined referral processes, facilitating seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care. These practices also typically prioritize patient communication, ensuring that patients are well-informed throughout the diagnostic and treatment journey.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Graham. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, offering patients convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be invaluable for managing symptoms, receiving emotional support, and accessing specialist consultations without the burden of travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to leverage technology to improve healthcare access and outcomes.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing patients with the support they need to cope with their diagnosis and treatment. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being, recognizing the profound impact of mental health on physical recovery and quality of life.

Assessing the overall Lung Cancer Score for Graham, NC, requires a nuanced understanding of these factors. The presence of a high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to specialists, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a strong primary care network, coupled with the adoption of evidence-based screening protocols, robust telemedicine integration, and readily available mental health resources, would significantly enhance the score.

In the context of Graham, NC, the specific practices and their operational models require detailed investigation. Are there any practices that have achieved recognition for their commitment to lung cancer screening or patient care? Do they employ dedicated patient navigators to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Are there any partnerships with local hospitals or cancer centers to ensure seamless care coordination?

Further investigation into the specific screening protocols employed by local practices is also crucial. Do they adhere to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, which recommend LDCT scans for high-risk individuals? Do they have established referral pathways for patients who screen positive?

The availability of mental health support services is another key factor. Are there any local therapists or counselors who specialize in working with cancer patients? Do any of the primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral relationships with mental health providers?

The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the local healthcare landscape is also important. Do any of the primary care practices offer virtual consultations or remote monitoring services? Are there any telehealth programs available through local hospitals or cancer centers?

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Graham, NC, reflects the collective strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. A high score indicates a robust and patient-centered approach to lung cancer care, while a low score highlights areas that need improvement.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Graham, NC, and to assess the Lung Cancer Score in detail, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability within the 27253 ZIP code and beyond. With CartoChrome, you can gain valuable insights into the factors that impact lung cancer care in Graham, NC, and identify opportunities to improve patient outcomes.