27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.44 percent of the residents in 27524 has some form of health insurance. 41.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.87 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 27524 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,790 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27524. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,627 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,180 health care providers accessible to residents in 27524, Four Oaks, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 27524 & Four Oaks Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 27524 (Four Oaks, North Carolina) with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in a patient's journey through diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly for individuals at risk or affected by lung cancer.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. In Four Oaks, the ratio is likely influenced by its proximity to larger population centers like Smithfield and Clayton. However, a lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic tests. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors, where timely intervention is vital. Researching the exact ratio requires accessing local health data, but the presence of a rural community suggests a potential challenge in this area.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond basic metrics. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, are highly valued. This includes offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, adhering to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines, and proactively educating patients about the benefits of screening. Practices that have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) with decision-support tools to identify at-risk patients and track screening compliance demonstrate a commitment to proactive care. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists to ensure seamless referrals and coordinated care are essential.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages in the context of lung cancer care. It can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The ability to connect patients with specialists without requiring travel is particularly beneficial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, are better equipped to provide comprehensive and convenient care. The specifics of telemedicine adoption rates within Four Oaks need to be investigated, but the potential for improving access to care is undeniable.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, are better positioned to address the emotional needs of patients and their families. Access to these resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with the disease. The availability of these resources within the Four Oaks healthcare system needs to be assessed, as access to mental health services can vary significantly across different communities.

Beyond the direct medical care, the overall healthcare ecosystem plays a vital role. This includes access to affordable medications, transportation assistance for appointments, and support services for patients and their families. Practices that are knowledgeable about and can connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The availability of these support systems within Four Oaks can significantly impact the patient experience and improve outcomes.

To evaluate the quality of care in Four Oaks, it's essential to examine the specific practices within the 27524 ZIP code. Researching individual practices, including their websites, patient reviews, and participation in quality improvement programs, can provide valuable insights. This involves evaluating their approach to screening, their referral patterns, their telemedicine capabilities, and their integration of mental health resources. Furthermore, exploring the local hospital system and its cancer care programs is crucial.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Four Oaks would be determined by combining these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare system that is proactive in screening, provides easy access to care, integrates telemedicine, offers robust mental health support, and connects patients with comprehensive resources. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support.

The evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Four Oaks is an ongoing process. The availability of data and resources can change, and continuous monitoring is essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The presence of a strong primary care foundation is critical for early detection, timely intervention, and comprehensive support for individuals affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Four Oaks and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare environment and making informed decisions about your health.