27356, Star, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27356, Star, North Carolina is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.46 percent of the residents in 27356 has some form of health insurance. 52.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.31 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 27356 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 990 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27356. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 375 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 635 health care providers accessible to residents in 27356, Star, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27356 & Primary Care in Star, NC**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 27356, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care in the nearby town of Star, North Carolina. The goal is to assess the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support. We will analyze physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and investigate the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate aim is to provide a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare ecosystem as it relates to lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests heavily on accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection is paramount. Regular screenings, thorough examinations, and a proactive approach to patient health are critical. In the context of Star, NC, evaluating the primary care infrastructure is the first step. This includes assessing the number of practicing physicians within the town and the surrounding areas who accept patients from ZIP Code 27356. This information is crucial to determine the patient-to-physician ratio, a key indicator of access to care. A low ratio generally indicates better access, allowing doctors more time per patient and facilitating more thorough examinations.

Data gathering is vital. To accurately determine the physician-to-patient ratio, one would need to consult databases of licensed physicians, insurance provider directories, and potentially local hospital records. This information would need to be cross-referenced with population data for Star and ZIP Code 27356 to calculate the ratio. It is essential to determine if there are enough primary care physicians to meet the needs of the population, especially considering the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking history, within the region.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves researching individual practices within Star and the surrounding areas. Factors to consider include the practice's commitment to preventative care, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (like access to low-dose CT scans), and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive health assessments, and offer support for smoking cessation programs would be considered more favorably. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by individual physicians and practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can potentially provide more convenient and efficient care. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital patient portals for communication and access to medical records.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked, but is an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the region is crucial. Furthermore, it is essential to investigate whether primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services and whether these services are readily accessible and affordable for patients.

Specific examples are needed to provide a complete picture. For instance, if a practice in Star has a dedicated nurse navigator who guides patients through the diagnosis and treatment process, that practice would be considered a standout. Similarly, if a practice offers on-site smoking cessation programs or partners with local support groups, it would be viewed favorably. The presence of a well-equipped imaging center within a reasonable distance of ZIP Code 27356 would also be a significant advantage.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors. The availability of health insurance, transportation, and financial assistance programs can significantly affect a patient's ability to access and afford necessary care. The analysis should explore these factors and assess the availability of resources to support patients with limited financial means.

The proximity to larger medical centers is also a factor. The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons, within a reasonable driving distance is crucial. This analysis should assess the proximity of ZIP Code 27356 to hospitals and cancer centers that offer comprehensive lung cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in ZIP Code 27356 requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and investigating mental health resources are all essential components. This analysis should also consider socioeconomic factors and the availability of specialized care. This comprehensive assessment provides a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27356 and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.