27305, Milton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27305, Milton, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.86 percent of the residents in 27305 has some form of health insurance. 48.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.04 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 27305 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 400 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27305. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 480 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47 health care providers accessible to residents in 27305, Milton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Milton, NC (ZIP Code 27305)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 27305, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" based on factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately informing patient access to quality care. This score is not a single number, but a composite evaluation across several key areas.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible primary care. Milton, NC, a small town, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts early detection through regular screenings and patient education. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can hinder access. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater availability, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in 27305 requires data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board. Accurate figures on the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, combined with the population data, will determine the ratio. A high ratio, for example, one PCP per 500 residents, is more favorable than a low ratio, such as one PCP per 2000 residents. This ratio is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings will score higher. The Lung Cancer Score considers the presence of dedicated staff trained in cancer prevention and early detection protocols.

Standout practices within the 27305 area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. This involves not only screening but also robust patient education programs. Practices that actively inform patients about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection will be recognized. The Lung Cancer Score will reward practices with readily available educational materials, both in-person and online.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Milton. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations are better positioned to serve their patients. The Lung Cancer Score gives weight to practices that embrace telemedicine, recognizing its potential to overcome geographical barriers.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is paramount. A cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, and access to mental health resources is essential for patient well-being. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of on-site or referral-based mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that offer counseling, support groups, or partnerships with mental health professionals receive a higher score.

The Lung Cancer Score will also evaluate the coordination of care. Effective lung cancer management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Practices that demonstrate strong referral networks and seamless communication between these specialists will be recognized. The score will favor practices that actively facilitate referrals and ensure continuity of care.

Furthermore, the score will assess the practice's commitment to patient advocacy. This includes assisting patients with navigating the healthcare system, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing financial assistance programs. Practices that prioritize patient support and advocacy will receive a higher score, reflecting their dedication to holistic care.

The Lung Cancer Score will be dynamic, evolving as healthcare practices adapt and improve. Regular updates will be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of best practices. The score will be designed to be a valuable tool for patients seeking information about lung cancer care in Milton, NC.

The analysis will also include a review of the local hospital systems and their capabilities. This will involve evaluating the availability of diagnostic equipment, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, as well as the expertise of the medical staff. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the proximity of these resources and their accessibility to patients in the 27305 ZIP code.

The score will also consider the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for prevention and early intervention. Practices that offer or refer patients to these programs will receive a higher score.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score will be transparent and accessible. The methodology used to calculate the score will be clearly explained, and the results will be presented in a user-friendly format. This will empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for the best possible care.

This analysis, and the resulting Lung Cancer Score, aims to be a valuable resource for residents of 27305. By providing a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare landscape, it empowers patients to make informed decisions about their health and to advocate for the best possible care.

**To visualize the distribution of primary care physicians, hospitals, and other relevant healthcare resources within ZIP Code 27305 and surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the Lung Cancer Score's components, explore the power of interactive mapping. Visit CartoChrome maps today and see the data come to life!**