27530, Goldsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27530, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 27530 has some form of health insurance. 44.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.88 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 27530 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,617 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27530. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,161 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,029 health care providers accessible to residents in 27530, Goldsboro, North Carolina.

The analysis below does not provide medical advice.

**Lung Cancer Score: Goldsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27530) Primary Care Landscape**

Analyzing the primary care landscape within Goldsboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27530) is crucial for understanding the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, particularly concerning early lung cancer detection and overall health management. This analysis will delve into key factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care environment and its impact on patient outcomes.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio within 27530 is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive screenings like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, and potentially delayed diagnoses. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the US Census Bureau, and the Area Health Resources Files can provide estimates. These resources, combined with data from professional medical organizations, paint a picture of PCP density in the area.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score. The size and structure of practices matter. Larger practices, often with multiple physicians and specialized staff, may offer a broader range of services and better coordination of care. This can include on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray facilities, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems that provide access to oncology specialists and advanced treatment options. Solo practices or smaller groups might face limitations in resources and staffing, potentially affecting their capacity to manage complex cases and provide comprehensive care.

Standout practices within 27530 likely exhibit several key features. These may include a commitment to preventive care, evidenced by robust screening programs for lung cancer and other diseases. Practices that actively engage in patient education, promoting healthy lifestyles and risk factor modification (e.g., smoking cessation), are also likely to score higher. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, enabling seamless information sharing with specialists and hospitals, contribute to improved care coordination and patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor impacting the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialist opinions via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate early detection through virtual screenings, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and improve communication between patients and their care teams. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are likely to provide a higher quality of care.

The link between mental health and overall health, including cancer outcomes, is undeniable. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a significant factor. Practices that integrate behavioral health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the psychological needs of patients, particularly those facing a cancer diagnosis. Early detection of mental health issues can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is also influenced by the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Primary care practices that offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, play a vital role in reducing lung cancer risk. These programs can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Evaluating the primary care landscape in Goldsboro requires a nuanced understanding of the factors mentioned above. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and smoking cessation resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. Practices that excel in these areas are likely to achieve higher Lung Cancer Scores, reflecting their commitment to comprehensive and patient-centered care.

To further investigate the primary care landscape in Goldsboro, consider using the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can visualize the distribution of primary care physicians, identify areas with limited access to care, and analyze the proximity of practices to hospitals and other healthcare facilities. This can provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.

**Call to Action:** Explore the primary care landscape of Goldsboro, NC (27530) with CartoChrome maps. Uncover valuable insights into physician distribution, healthcare accessibility, and the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score.