27357, Stokesdale, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27357, Stokesdale, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 27357 has some form of health insurance. 30.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.63 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 27357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,491 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27357. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,142 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,103 health care providers accessible to residents in 27357, Stokesdale, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Stokesdale, NC (ZIP Code 27357)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Stokesdale, North Carolina (ZIP code 27357), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. The goal is to assess the quality and availability of resources for patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support, all crucial components of holistic lung cancer treatment. This analysis aims to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, though specific numerical scoring is beyond the scope of this text.

Stokesdale, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The success of lung cancer treatment is heavily reliant on early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive care. This requires a robust primary care foundation, efficient referral pathways, and access to specialized services. Evaluating these factors will paint a clearer picture of the healthcare environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Stokesdale, understanding this ratio is crucial. A low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, along with publicly available information from healthcare providers, will be essential to determine the current ratio. A preliminary investigation suggests that Stokesdale, being a more rural area, might face a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban centers. This emphasizes the significance of efficient healthcare delivery models and resource allocation.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system. They are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. The availability of PCPs in Stokesdale, their ability to accept new patients, and their familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines are all vital. The presence of a strong primary care network, including internal medicine and family medicine practices, is a critical factor in a positive 'Lung Cancer Score'. This includes assessing the number of PCPs, their geographic distribution within the ZIP code, and the availability of appointments.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves evaluating the quality of care offered by local healthcare providers. Factors to consider include: the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons; the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans); and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection through lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), will score favorably.

Furthermore, the proximity and accessibility of specialized care facilities are paramount. While Stokesdale may not have its own dedicated cancer center, the proximity to larger hospitals and cancer treatment facilities in nearby cities like Greensboro or Winston-Salem is essential. This includes assessing the ease of referral pathways, the availability of transportation for patients, and the integration of care between primary care providers and specialists. The efficiency of communication and collaboration between different healthcare providers directly impacts the quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in Stokesdale is a significant factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. This is particularly important for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and mobility limitations.

Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, online patient portals) and the ease of access for patients (e.g., availability of technology, insurance coverage) is crucial. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow and have demonstrated improved patient outcomes will receive a higher score. The ability to offer telemedicine appointments could significantly improve the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources and support services is an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, as well as support groups, counseling services, and patient education programs.

The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is critical. This involves assessing whether primary care practices and oncology centers have established referral pathways to mental health providers and whether they provide resources to address the psychological and emotional challenges associated with cancer. The availability of these resources directly impacts the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Stokesdale, NC (ZIP code 27357) will be determined by the collective strength of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment with excellent access to primary care, specialized services, telemedicine, and mental health support. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed to enhance the quality of lung cancer care.

The assessment process involves data collection from various sources, including healthcare provider websites, insurance databases, and public health records. This data will be analyzed to create a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. The final 'Lung Cancer Score' will be a reflection of the community's ability to provide timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support for patients affected by lung cancer.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in Stokesdale. To gain a more detailed and visually insightful understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. This platform can provide a dynamic and data-rich visualization of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.