27504, Benson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27504, Benson, North Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.25 percent of the residents in 27504 has some form of health insurance. 39.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 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 27504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,075 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,879 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,129 health care providers accessible to residents in 27504, Benson, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27504 and Primary Care Availability in Benson, NC**

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services in Benson, North Carolina, with a specific focus on the resources available to address lung cancer detection and treatment. We will examine the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27504, which encompasses a portion of Benson, and assess factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. This information will provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure in its ability to support individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals to specialists are critical for improved survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 27504 offers an initial indication of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time dedicated to each patient. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for this area is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this critical information. This data will form a baseline for understanding the potential challenges patients may face in accessing primary care services.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is another key element of this analysis. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to preventative medicine. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified physicians, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and participation in quality improvement programs. Patient reviews and testimonials, readily available online, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Look for practices that emphasize patient education, proactive screening programs, and a collaborative approach to care, especially concerning lung cancer risk factors like smoking cessation programs. A practice that actively promotes preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, is a significant asset to the community.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices in 27504 offer telemedicine options is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of services offered virtually, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists, potentially improving outcomes for lung cancer patients.

Mental health resources play a critical role in comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through this difficult journey. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system. This includes identifying whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a valuable resource for patients and their families.

The availability of resources for smoking cessation is a critical factor in lung cancer prevention and treatment. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a crucial step in improving their health outcomes. Assessing the availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, is a key aspect of this analysis. Primary care practices that actively promote smoking cessation and offer evidence-based interventions are essential partners in the fight against lung cancer.

The quality of care is also assessed by looking at the availability of specialized services and access to specialists. This includes the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within a reasonable distance of 27504. The ability of primary care physicians to effectively refer patients to these specialists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will also consider the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, which are used for lung cancer screening.

The overall healthcare ecosystem in Benson, NC, and the surrounding areas is constantly evolving. The implementation of new technologies, the changing demographics of the population, and the evolving healthcare policies all impact the availability and quality of care. Regular updates to this analysis are essential to accurately reflect the current state of healthcare in this area.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on patient outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and food security can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. Understanding these factors is crucial for identifying potential barriers to care and developing strategies to address them.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare resources available to individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer in the 27504 ZIP code. By examining the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, assessing mental health resources, and considering social determinants of health, this analysis aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can then be used to inform healthcare planning, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately, save lives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 27504 and Benson, NC, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a valuable visual aid for understanding the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential areas for improvement.