27314, Prospect Hill, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27314, Prospect Hill, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.23 percent of the residents in 27314 has some form of health insurance. 24.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.50 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 27314 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27314. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 86 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,057 health care providers accessible to residents in 27314, Prospect Hill, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses lung cancer care within ZIP code 27314, focusing on primary care availability in Prospect Hill, North Carolina. This evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive lung cancer support.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Prospect Hill and the surrounding areas of 27314 is a foundational element of care access. While precise figures are difficult to obtain without specific data from health insurance providers or the North Carolina Medical Board, a general assessment can be made. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. This can result in a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings. This means that each primary care physician (PCP) may be responsible for a larger patient population. This can impact the amount of time a patient has with their doctor. It may also affect the speed with which appointments can be scheduled.

The availability of primary care is particularly critical for lung cancer patients. Early detection and ongoing management of the disease require regular check-ups, screenings, and the coordination of care with specialists. A shortage of PCPs can therefore create significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. Patients may experience delays in receiving necessary referrals or may have difficulty accessing preventive care services, such as smoking cessation programs, which are crucial for reducing the risk of lung cancer.

Identifying standout medical practices within 27314 is important. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering a range of services and adopting innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. While a comprehensive evaluation would involve analyzing patient reviews, quality metrics, and the scope of services offered, some indicators can be considered. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems or hospitals may have access to a wider range of specialists, advanced diagnostic equipment, and research opportunities. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education, such as offering free health screenings or smoking cessation classes, may also be considered as strong options.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor in evaluating the quality of care. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, through video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, who may have difficulty traveling long distances to see a doctor. Telemedicine can also improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the local area. The availability of telemedicine services can improve patient access to care and reduce the burden of travel. It can also improve the efficiency of care delivery.

The integration of mental health resources is an essential aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is therefore crucial for supporting patients' well-being. The availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals to specialists can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Evaluating the specific practices within 27314 requires further investigation. However, general observations can be made. The presence of practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as UNC Health or Duke Health, would suggest greater access to specialists and advanced resources. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also an important indicator of a practice's commitment to efficiency and coordination of care. EHRs allow for the seamless sharing of patient information between providers, improving communication and reducing the risk of medical errors.

The presence of smoking cessation programs within primary care practices is also a key indicator of a practice's commitment to preventive care. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a critical step in reducing their risk. Practices that offer evidence-based smoking cessation programs, such as counseling and medication, demonstrate a commitment to addressing this important health issue.

The availability of support groups and educational resources for lung cancer patients is another important factor to consider. Support groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. Educational resources, such as pamphlets, websites, and online forums, can provide patients with valuable information about their disease, treatment options, and coping strategies.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 27314, considering primary care availability in Prospect Hill, would likely be influenced by the factors mentioned above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a significant role in determining the quality of care. The score would also be influenced by the availability of specialists, the presence of smoking cessation programs, and the availability of support groups and educational resources.

Further research is needed to provide a more specific and detailed Lung Cancer Score. This would involve gathering data on the physician-to-patient ratio, the services offered by local practices, and the availability of telemedicine and mental health resources. This data would then be analyzed to create a comprehensive assessment of the quality of lung cancer care in the area.

For a visual representation of healthcare access, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community resources within ZIP code 27314, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas where access to care may be limited. CartoChrome maps can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and find the resources you need.