27311, Pelham, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27311, Pelham, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.35 percent of the residents in 27311 has some form of health insurance. 59.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.88 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 27311 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 690 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27311. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 706 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 761 health care providers accessible to residents in 27311, Pelham, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pelham, NC (ZIP Code 27311)

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of primary care resources and related factors within ZIP code 27311 (Pelham, NC), specifically focusing on elements pertinent to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The goal is to assess the availability and quality of care, offering insights into the community's preparedness to address this significant health concern. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all within the context of lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. This is where early detection through screening and prompt referral for diagnosis and treatment begins. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio within Pelham is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and decreased opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screening. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to care and potentially improved health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for calculating this ratio. The analysis would compare Pelham's ratio to both state and national averages, providing a benchmark for assessing its relative strengths and weaknesses.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves evaluating the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of comprehensive services. Standout practices in Pelham should be identified through a combination of factors. These include patient reviews (available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals), the practice's participation in quality improvement programs (e.g., NCQA accreditation), and the availability of on-site services that facilitate lung cancer care. Does the practice offer smoking cessation programs? Do they actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients? Are they connected to larger healthcare systems with specialized oncology services? These are crucial questions that help differentiate practices and assess their effectiveness in addressing lung cancer risk factors and early detection.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare, and its adoption in Pelham is particularly relevant. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas, by offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate access to specialists, provide support for smoking cessation programs, and streamline communication between patients and their care teams. The analysis should determine the extent of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices in Pelham. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technological infrastructure in place to support telemedicine. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access, which can be particularly valuable for individuals managing chronic conditions like lung cancer.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Mental health resources are, therefore, an essential component of comprehensive care. The analysis needs to assess the availability of mental health services within Pelham, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Does the primary care practice offer integrated mental health services, or does it have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there local support groups for individuals with lung cancer and their families? Addressing the emotional and psychological needs of patients is critical for improving their quality of life and promoting adherence to treatment plans. The presence and accessibility of these resources are crucial indicators of a community's commitment to holistic patient care.

The availability of specific resources directly related to lung cancer screening and diagnosis is also critical. Does Pelham have access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, which is recommended for high-risk individuals? Are there radiologists trained in interpreting these scans? Are there pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance for consultation and treatment? The analysis must investigate the availability of these specialized services and assess the ease with which patients can access them. Partnerships with larger healthcare systems or hospitals that offer these services can significantly improve the community's ability to address lung cancer.

Furthermore, an assessment of health literacy within the community is essential. Health literacy refers to an individual's ability to understand and use health information to make informed decisions. Low health literacy can be a barrier to accessing care, understanding treatment plans, and participating in preventative measures. The analysis should consider the availability of health education resources, particularly those related to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Are there community outreach programs that provide information about lung cancer risk factors and screening guidelines? Are educational materials available in multiple languages to serve the diverse population of Pelham? Addressing health literacy gaps can empower individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health.

Finally, the analysis would consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. These include poverty rates, access to health insurance, and environmental factors such as exposure to air pollution. These factors can influence an individual's risk of developing lung cancer and their ability to access timely and effective care. Understanding these socioeconomic factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions to address health disparities and improve overall community health.

In conclusion, a thorough evaluation of primary care resources, telemedicine adoption, mental health services, and specialized lung cancer care within Pelham, NC (ZIP code 27311) provides a comprehensive understanding of the community's capacity to address this serious health concern. By assessing these factors, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the residents of Pelham.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and population demographics in Pelham and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare access, socioeconomic factors, and lung cancer risk factors. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of your community's health landscape.