The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27539, Apex, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 27539 has some form of health insurance. 17.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.67 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 27539 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 8,426 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 86 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27539. An estimate of 37 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,628 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,677 health care providers accessible to residents in 27539, Apex, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27539, Apex, North Carolina
Lung Cancer Score | 78 |
---|---|
People Score | 62 |
Provider Score | 46 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 65 |
27539 | Apex | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Apex, NC (ZIP Code 27539)
This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Apex, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27539), focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing patient support. This score is not a single number but a composite understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.
The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers), is paramount. A robust primary care network acts as the gatekeeper, identifying potential issues, ordering necessary diagnostic tests, and facilitating referrals to specialists.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, poorer outcomes. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 27539 is essential. This data, often available through state medical boards or healthcare analytics firms, provides a baseline for understanding the overall accessibility of care.
Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care within the existing primary care practices is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as the adoption of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that actively participate in screening programs, offer smoking cessation counseling, and have robust referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists are likely to receive higher marks in our assessment.
Standout practices within Apex will be identified by their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes proactive screening protocols, patient education initiatives, and a patient-centered approach. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment and management, through continuing medical education and participation in clinical trials, will be recognized.
Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The availability of telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate vicinity.
Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the primary care network or through readily accessible referral pathways is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, offer support groups, and provide resources for coping with the emotional challenges of cancer will receive a higher score.
The assessment of lung cancer care in Apex also includes evaluating the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Proximity to these services and the efficiency of the referral process are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Practices that have strong relationships with local hospitals and cancer centers, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care, will be viewed favorably.
The Lung Cancer Score is not just about the availability of medical services; it also considers the patient experience. Practices that prioritize clear communication, provide patient education materials, and actively involve patients in their care decisions will score higher. Patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience and can help identify practices that are truly patient-centered.
Furthermore, the analysis will examine the availability of community resources. This includes support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. These resources provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.
The score also considers the demographics of the population served. Apex, like many communities, has a diverse population. Understanding the specific needs of different demographic groups, such as older adults, individuals with limited English proficiency, and those with socioeconomic challenges, is essential for providing equitable care. Practices that demonstrate cultural sensitivity and address the unique needs of their patient population will receive a higher score.
The analysis will also consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Apex. This includes the presence of hospitals, cancer centers, and other specialized facilities. The availability of these resources and their proximity to primary care practices are critical for ensuring timely access to specialized care. Strong collaboration and communication between primary care physicians and specialists are essential for optimal patient outcomes.
The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not a static measure but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape in Apex. It will be updated periodically to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of community resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date picture of the quality of lung cancer care in the area.
To gain a visual understanding of the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and healthcare resources within Apex, and to analyze their proximity to each other and to the population, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and the accessibility of care within ZIP code 27539.
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