27291, Leasburg, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27291, Leasburg, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.19 percent of the residents in 27291 has some form of health insurance. 42.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.47 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 27291 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27291. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 389 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 50 health care providers accessible to residents in 27291, Leasburg, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27291 & Leasburg Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care access and related resources within ZIP Code 27291, specifically focusing on the availability of primary care in the surrounding Leasburg area. The goal is to establish a “Lung Cancer Score” that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and patient well-being. This score is not a definitive ranking, but rather an analytical framework to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in this specific region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Leasburg, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a primary indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access to care, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and local healthcare providers will be crucial in calculating this ratio and assessing its impact on the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Does Leasburg have PCPs who are actively participating in continuing medical education (CME) related to lung cancer screening and diagnosis? Are they familiar with the latest guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Are they equipped to order and interpret low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening tool for high-risk individuals? The Lung Cancer Score must consider these factors, reflecting the knowledge and expertise of the available PCPs.

A crucial aspect of modern healthcare is the integration of telemedicine. The adoption of telehealth services by primary care practices in Leasburg can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to consult with physicians, receive follow-up care, and even participate in virtual support groups. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent monitoring. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), will be assessed.

Mental health is an often-overlooked component of cancer care, but it is vital for patient well-being. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The Lung Cancer Score must incorporate an evaluation of the availability of mental health resources in the Leasburg area. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) and the ease with which patients can access these services. Are there support groups specifically for cancer patients? Are there programs that address the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families? The integration of mental health support is critical for comprehensive cancer care.

Focusing on ZIP Code 27291, the analysis will identify specific primary care practices and assess their contributions to the Lung Cancer Score. Are there any standout practices that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer screening, early detection, and patient support? Do they have a strong track record of patient outcomes? Are they actively involved in community outreach and education programs related to lung cancer prevention? Identifying and highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area.

The analysis will also examine the availability of specialists within a reasonable distance of ZIP Code 27291. Access to pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the travel time to these specialists and the availability of appointments. A lack of specialized care can significantly impact the prognosis for lung cancer patients.

The assessment will consider the accessibility of diagnostic facilities, such as imaging centers that offer LDCT scans. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the number of facilities, their hours of operation, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. Delays in diagnosis can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.

The analysis will also look at the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is essential for prevention and early intervention. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the presence of smoking cessation programs, counseling services, and access to medications that aid in quitting smoking.

Finally, the analysis will consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. Are there disparities in access to care based on income, insurance status, or race/ethnicity? The Lung Cancer Score will reflect an awareness of these issues and the efforts being made to address them.

By combining data on physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist availability, diagnostic facility access, smoking cessation programs, and socioeconomic factors, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score can be developed for ZIP Code 27291 and the Leasburg area. This score will provide a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data and the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to visualize the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this region.