27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.96 percent of the residents in 27534 has some form of health insurance. 36.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.39 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 27534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,285 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,216 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,153 health care providers accessible to residents in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina.

The analysis below focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 27534 (Goldsboro, North Carolina) and assessing primary care availability, crucial factors influencing early detection and treatment outcomes. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible primary care. Goldsboro's primary care landscape serves as the initial gateway for screening, diagnosis, and referral. High physician-to-patient ratios can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a robust primary care network, with sufficient providers, fosters early detection through routine screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals. This proactive approach significantly improves survival rates.

Within ZIP code 27534, the physician-to-patient ratio in primary care warrants careful consideration. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Census Bureau can be utilized to estimate this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, might suggest longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced opportunities for preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio, reflecting a greater availability of physicians, could translate to improved access and earlier intervention.

Several medical practices within Goldsboro play a significant role in lung cancer care. Wayne UNC Health Care, as a major healthcare provider, likely offers a range of services, including primary care, pulmonology, oncology, and potentially, radiation therapy. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, encompassing these specialties, is vital for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. Standout practices would be those demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based medicine, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities, and actively participating in clinical trials. These practices often exhibit superior patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical aspect of modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups remotely. Its integration into lung cancer care can improve access to specialists, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, potentially reducing the burden on local resources and improving patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach, enhancing patient care and expanding access.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore an indispensable component of comprehensive care. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients through the emotional and psychological challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes readily available referrals to mental health specialists, support groups, and educational resources.

The availability of mental health resources can be assessed by examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered, and the ease of access. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and provide timely referrals contribute significantly to patient outcomes. The integration of mental health services can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and enhance their overall quality of life.

The assessment of lung cancer care in Goldsboro necessitates a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout medical practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality of care and the potential for improved patient outcomes. The presence of a robust primary care network, coupled with specialized lung cancer services, is essential for providing timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Goldsboro, including the location of medical practices, the availability of specialists, and the distribution of mental health resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing for a more informed assessment of access to care and the identification of potential gaps in services.