27542, Kenly, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27542, Kenly, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.93 percent of the residents in 27542 has some form of health insurance. 39.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.14 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 27542 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,701 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27542. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,697 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,789 health care providers accessible to residents in 27542, Kenly, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Kenly, NC (ZIP Code 27542)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and related resources within Kenly, North Carolina (ZIP code 27542), focusing on factors impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall patient care. The goal is to understand the landscape of healthcare availability, identify potential strengths, and highlight areas for improvement in the context of lung cancer management. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The foundation of a good lung cancer score starts with the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Kenly, a relatively small community, likely experiences challenges in physician recruitment and retention. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, or data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 27542. This ratio directly impacts the ability of residents to access preventative care, including routine check-ups and screenings, which are crucial for early lung cancer detection.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Factors like insurance acceptance, particularly the acceptance of Medicare and Medicaid, are vital. A significant portion of the population may rely on these programs. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans increase access to care for all residents. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and weekend appointments can improve access.

Standout practices in Kenly, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and patient education. This includes actively promoting lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., current and former smokers) according to established guidelines. These practices likely have implemented systems for identifying eligible patients, scheduling screenings, and following up on results. They would also be expected to provide smoking cessation resources, a crucial component of lung cancer prevention.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine, or telehealth, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Kenly. It allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially easing the burden on healthcare providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and consultations can improve patient access and convenience. Telemedicine also facilitates access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

Mental health resources are critical in the context of lung cancer. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a significant factor in the overall quality of care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. These resources should be readily accessible and affordable.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also plays a role. Modern, well-equipped clinics and hospitals with up-to-date diagnostic equipment (e.g., CT scanners) can improve the accuracy and speed of diagnosis. Proximity to larger hospitals or cancer centers, particularly those with specialized lung cancer treatment programs, is also beneficial. This proximity is important for patients requiring advanced treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the level of community awareness and education. Public health initiatives promoting lung cancer awareness, early detection, and smoking cessation can significantly impact patient outcomes. Local health departments, community organizations, and healthcare providers should collaborate to educate the public about risk factors, screening guidelines, and available resources.

The overall score for Kenly, NC, would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care base with good physician-to-patient ratios, practices actively promoting preventative care, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and strong community awareness. A low score would reflect the opposite: limited access to primary care, a lack of preventative care initiatives, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health support.

Further research would require data collection from multiple sources. This includes surveying local practices, examining publicly available data on physician supply, and analyzing health insurance coverage rates. Patient surveys would also provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Kenly, NC (27542) requires a comprehensive understanding of the primary care landscape. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the commitment to preventative care, we can gain a clearer picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information is essential for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kenly and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps provide an excellent platform for visualizing this information and gaining a deeper understanding of healthcare access in your community.