27406, Greensboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27406, Greensboro, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.44 percent of the residents in 27406 has some form of health insurance. 42.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.70 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 27406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16,431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27406. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,519 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,256 health care providers accessible to residents in 27406, Greensboro, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Greensboro, NC (ZIP Code 27406)**

This analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within the 27406 ZIP code of Greensboro, North Carolina, focusing on primary care physician availability, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and overall healthcare accessibility. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, reflecting the community's preparedness to address this serious disease. This score is not a single numerical value but rather a nuanced evaluation of various contributing factors.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is critical, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The physician-to-patient ratio within 27406 is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This data must be analyzed carefully, taking into account the number of active primary care physicians, the total population within the zip code, and the age distribution of the population, as older populations are generally at higher risk for lung cancer.

Beyond simple numbers, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute symptoms is a significant factor. Practices that prioritize rapid access to care demonstrate a commitment to early intervention. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability across different practices and hospitals is equally important. Seamless information sharing between primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic centers streamlines the diagnostic process and facilitates coordinated care. The presence of dedicated nurse navigators within primary care practices, who assist patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, significantly enhances the patient experience.

Identifying standout practices within the 27406 area requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices with strong reputations for patient care, evidenced by positive patient reviews, accreditations from reputable organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that actively screen for lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards, and offer smoking cessation programs are particularly valuable. These proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and early detection.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its impact on lung cancer care is multifaceted. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, reducing the need for lengthy travel and improving access to expertise. It can also be used for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely intervention and adjustments to care plans. The availability of telehealth services within primary care practices and specialist offices within 27406 is a key indicator of the area’s healthcare infrastructure. The quality of the telehealth platform, including its ease of use and security features, is also important.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but it is critically important. A lung cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their offerings are particularly well-positioned to support patients. This may involve having on-site mental health professionals, offering referrals to mental health specialists, or providing educational materials about coping with cancer-related stress. The accessibility of these resources, including cost and availability, is a vital part of the score.

The overall accessibility of healthcare services within 27406 is also a critical consideration. This includes factors like transportation options, insurance coverage, and the availability of financial assistance programs. Patients who face barriers to accessing care are less likely to receive timely diagnoses and treatment. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers, which offer affordable care to underserved populations, can significantly improve healthcare accessibility.

The “Lung Cancer Score” analysis for 27406, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of same-day appointments, the adoption of EHRs and telemedicine, the presence of nurse navigators, the reputation of local practices, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. A high score indicates a community well-equipped to address the challenges of lung cancer, while a low score suggests areas for improvement.

To gather the necessary data for a comprehensive analysis, resources like the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local hospital systems will be utilized. Patient reviews, practice websites, and publicly available information on insurance coverage and financial assistance programs will also be researched.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be a qualitative assessment based on the collected data, providing a snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care within the 27406 ZIP code. This analysis will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Greensboro and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and mental health facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and assess their accessibility within the 27406 ZIP code and beyond.