27522, Creedmoor, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27522, Creedmoor, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.73 percent of the residents in 27522 has some form of health insurance. 27.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.62 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 27522 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,045 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27522. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,790 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,820 health care providers accessible to residents in 27522, Creedmoor, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Creedmoor, NC (ZIP Code 27522)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 27522, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to establish a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility and quality of care available to residents of Creedmoor, North Carolina. This score considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician Availability**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and a strong network of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as the first line of defense. In Creedmoor, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor in our Lung Cancer Score. We must examine the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally translates to better access and more individualized attention. Data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available healthcare databases, are essential to accurately determine this ratio within the 27522 ZIP code.

Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs within the community is important. Are they concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more rural parts of Creedmoor? Analyzing the geographic distribution of practices helps paint a more complete picture of accessibility. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also a significant consideration, as they often serve vulnerable populations and can improve access to care for those with limited resources.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within Creedmoor is crucial. These practices may demonstrate superior patient care, employ advanced diagnostic techniques, or have a proven track record in early lung cancer detection. We need to evaluate practices based on several criteria: their use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, their patient satisfaction scores, their referral patterns to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons), and their commitment to patient education and support.

Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or partner with local hospitals to provide screening opportunities deserve special recognition. The adoption of innovative technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between providers, also contributes to a higher score. The presence of dedicated care coordinators, who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, is another positive indicator.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine plays an increasingly vital role in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Creedmoor. It offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialized care. The Lung Cancer Score must assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices.

We need to investigate the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists. Are patients able to access remote monitoring services, such as those that track vital signs or symptoms? The use of telemedicine for patient education and support groups is also a critical factor. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, factors that are especially important for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common among patients. The Lung Cancer Score must therefore evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the community.

This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a significant advantage. Does the practice offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health providers?

Furthermore, the availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is crucial. These groups provide a safe space for patients and their families to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The presence of resources specifically designed for caregivers is also an important consideration.

**Specifics for Creedmoor (27522)**

While a precise, real-time score requires access to proprietary data, the analysis framework allows for a more informed assessment. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Census Bureau, and healthcare directories provides a starting point.

For example, we can examine the number of PCPs practicing within the 27522 ZIP code and compare it to the population of Creedmoor. This will provide a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio. We can then identify the major healthcare practices in the area and research their websites and patient reviews to assess their services and patient satisfaction.

We can also search for local hospitals and clinics that offer lung cancer screening programs and identify any telemedicine services available. Finally, we can investigate the availability of mental health providers and support groups in the area, including those specifically focused on cancer patients.

**Conclusion**

Creating a Lung Cancer Score for Creedmoor (27522) is a complex undertaking, but one that is crucial for understanding the healthcare landscape and ensuring that residents have access to the best possible care. The analysis must consider physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Creedmoor and visualize the data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and highlight opportunities for improvement.