27525, Franklinton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27525, Franklinton, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.47 percent of the residents in 27525 has some form of health insurance. 37.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.56 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 27525 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,309 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27525. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,046 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,107 health care providers accessible to residents in 27525, Franklinton, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Franklinton, NC (ZIP Code 27525)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within Franklinton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27525), focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients facing this challenging disease. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement. This analysis doesn't assign a numerical "score" but instead offers a qualitative assessment of the factors influencing patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Franklinton's primary care availability is a crucial starting point. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the current ratio within 27525 requires careful investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services should be consulted. This data will reveal whether the area is classified as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care, which would signal a significant challenge.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care practices matters. Are practices concentrated in specific areas of Franklinton, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more rural or underserved parts of the ZIP code? Are practices accepting new patients, and what is the average wait time for an appointment? These practical considerations directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care.

Within the existing primary care infrastructure, the quality of care is paramount. Are primary care physicians (PCPs) actively involved in lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers)? Do they follow established guidelines for screening, diagnosis, and referral to specialists? The implementation of evidence-based practices is crucial.

The presence of standout primary care practices in Franklinton can significantly improve the overall outlook. These practices might be characterized by their patient-centered approach, commitment to preventative care, and proactive management of chronic conditions. They may have dedicated care coordinators, offer extended hours, or leverage technology to enhance patient communication and engagement. Identifying these exemplary practices is vital for understanding best practices and potentially disseminating them more broadly.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare professionals can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face mobility challenges or live in remote areas. The availability of telemedicine appointments for lung cancer screening discussions, follow-up appointments, and mental health support is particularly important. Examining the extent to which Franklinton practices have embraced telemedicine is essential.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are inherently stressful, often accompanied by significant emotional distress. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a non-negotiable component of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Franklinton is a crucial factor. Are these resources readily accessible, and do they accept the same insurance plans as the primary care practices? Furthermore, do primary care practices actively screen patients for mental health concerns and provide appropriate referrals?

The integration of mental health services into the lung cancer care pathway is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach. This could involve providing on-site mental health support, partnering with local mental health organizations, or offering educational materials and support groups for patients and their families.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is also critical. While Franklinton may not have these specialists directly within its borders, the proximity to larger medical centers and the ease of referral pathways are important considerations. The efficiency of the referral process, the communication between primary care physicians and specialists, and the ability of patients to access specialized care in a timely manner are all important factors.

Community support systems can also play a vital role. Are there local support groups for lung cancer patients and their families? Are there resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of treatment, insurance, and financial assistance? The presence of these support systems can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Finally, the role of patient education and empowerment should not be overlooked. Do primary care practices provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Do they encourage patient participation in decision-making and provide resources to help patients advocate for themselves?

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in Franklinton (ZIP Code 27525) requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, primary care practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care are all crucial. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem allows for identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and potential access barriers in Franklinton and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.