27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 27312 has some form of health insurance. 34.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.54 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 27312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27312. An estimate of 19 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,669 health care providers accessible to residents in 27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pittsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27312)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within ZIP code 27312, focusing on primary care availability in Pittsboro, North Carolina. The assessment considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and management of lung cancer, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and its implications for residents.

Pittsboro, a rapidly growing community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The increasing population necessitates a robust and accessible primary care network, which is critical for early lung cancer screening and referrals. The quality and accessibility of this network directly impact the community's ability to combat lung cancer effectively.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In ZIP code 27312, data indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the growing population. While precise figures fluctuate, the existing ratio may place a strain on available resources. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This scarcity also impacts the time physicians can dedicate to each patient, potentially affecting the thoroughness of examinations and discussions about risk factors.

Standout practices within Pittsboro demonstrate varying levels of preparedness and expertise. Some practices have implemented advanced screening protocols, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These practices actively identify and manage patients at increased risk, improving the likelihood of early detection and improved outcomes. Other practices may lag in adopting these screening methods, which can create disparities in access to crucial preventative care. The presence of pulmonologists and oncologists within or near the area is another key factor, streamlining the referral process and facilitating specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The availability of telemedicine within primary care practices in Pittsboro varies. Some practices have embraced this technology, offering virtual visits for routine check-ups, medication management, and even initial consultations. This enhances accessibility, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Other practices may be slower to adopt telemedicine, potentially limiting access to care for certain patient populations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease. In Pittsboro, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is an important factor. Practices that offer on-site counselors or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Pittsboro, NC (ZIP code 27312) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the community benefits from the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals, the potential physician shortage, and varying levels of practice preparedness create challenges. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources further shape the score, highlighting areas of strength and weakness within the healthcare system.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score, several key areas require attention. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area is paramount. Encouraging all practices to adopt evidence-based screening protocols, including LDCT scans, is essential. Expanding telemedicine capabilities across all practices would enhance accessibility and convenience. Finally, ensuring readily available mental health resources for patients is critical for holistic care.

The data suggests that the community is working to improve healthcare access. The growth in population necessitates proactive measures to address the challenges. The implementation of comprehensive screening programs, combined with expanded telemedicine and mental health resources, can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score for Pittsboro.

The analysis highlights the importance of informed decision-making for both patients and healthcare providers. Patients should be aware of the availability of screenings and the resources available to them. Healthcare providers should continually strive to improve their practices and adopt best practices.

For a more detailed, visual, and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pittsboro, NC, and to explore the geographical distribution of resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.