27523, Apex, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27523, Apex, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.98 percent of the residents in 27523 has some form of health insurance. 21.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.82 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 27523 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 255 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27523. An estimate of 141 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,406 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 38,712 health care providers accessible to residents in 27523, Apex, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Apex, NC (ZIP Code 27523)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 27523 (Apex, North Carolina), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This score is not a single number but a multifaceted evaluation reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Apex, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical element. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access to appointments, more personalized care, and potentially earlier detection of symptoms. Analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing within 27523 and comparing it to the population size is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be used to determine this ratio. A lower ratio, ideally, would be a positive indicator. However, this data alone is insufficient.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs within Apex matters. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, creating potential access disparities for residents in more remote locations? The presence of practices in various parts of the town, including those near residential areas and public transportation, contributes to a higher score. This includes assessing the proximity of practices to major roads and highways, easing patient travel and improving access.

Standout practices in Apex will be identified based on several criteria. These include the adoption of best practices in preventative care, such as proactively recommending lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers) based on age and smoking history. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing and coordination of care between PCPs and specialists, will also receive positive consideration. Patient reviews and testimonials, accessible through online platforms, will be analyzed to gauge patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care provided. Practices with a proven track record of patient education regarding lung cancer risk factors and early detection strategies will be highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial screenings, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and are actively using them for patient communication and management will be scored favorably. This includes assessing the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine services with the practice's overall care delivery model.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being. This analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within Apex. The presence of partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, allowing for easy referrals and integrated care, will be a significant positive factor. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for lung cancer patients and their families, will also be considered.

The score will also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of Apex. While primary care is the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of hospitals and cancer centers equipped to handle lung cancer cases, including those offering advanced treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is a vital component of the overall score. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities for lung cancer patients within a reasonable distance will also be taken into account.

Furthermore, the analysis will delve into the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is crucial for accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, will be viewed more favorably, ensuring that care is available to a broader population. This includes understanding the cost of care, including co-pays and deductibles, and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Apex, NC (27523) will be a composite of all these factors. It will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care available to residents. The final score will be a qualitative assessment, not a simple numerical value. It will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This analysis will offer valuable information to residents seeking care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers working to enhance the quality of healthcare in the community.

This analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the lung cancer care landscape in Apex, NC (27523). It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals concerned about their lung health should consult with their primary care physician.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Apex and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score," explore CartoChrome maps.