27544, Kittrell, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 27544 has some form of health insurance. 42.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.11 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 27544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 963 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 882 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,678 health care providers accessible to residents in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare Resources in ZIP Code 27544 and Kittrell, NC

This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 27544 (Franklinton, NC) and the surrounding area, specifically focusing on primary care availability in the nearby town of Kittrell. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, evaluating factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient support for individuals potentially facing this serious illness. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and robust primary care. In Kittrell, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. A scarcity of primary care providers necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. This can significantly impact the prognosis for lung cancer patients, as early detection is vital for successful treatment. The physician-to-patient ratio in Kittrell needs close scrutiny. Does the town have sufficient primary care physicians to serve its population adequately? Are these physicians accepting new patients, and what is the average wait time for an appointment? These factors directly influence the "Lung Cancer Score" for the area.

Franklinton (27544) and its surrounding areas require a similar assessment. The presence of a well-established primary care network, including family medicine, internal medicine, and potentially specialized pulmonary practices, is a key indicator of a favorable environment for lung cancer patients. The geographic distribution of these practices within the ZIP code is also important. Are there underserved areas where access to primary care is limited? This spatial analysis is essential for understanding the true accessibility of healthcare resources.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care provided by individual practices is a critical factor. Identifying "standout practices" that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and patient-centered care can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score." This involves evaluating factors such as the use of evidence-based screening guidelines, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, offer smoking cessation resources, and provide comprehensive patient navigation services would receive higher marks in this evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Kittrell and Franklinton. The ability to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health services remotely can be a significant advantage for lung cancer patients. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to care, and potentially accelerate the diagnosis and treatment process. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would contribute positively to the "Lung Cancer Score."

The mental and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology is a vital factor in improving the overall well-being of patients. Evaluating the presence of these resources within the community, and the ease with which patients can access them, is essential for a holistic "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a particularly beneficial model, as it allows for early identification and intervention for patients experiencing emotional distress.

Analyzing the data on physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources requires a multifaceted approach. This includes gathering data from public sources, insurance providers, and healthcare directories. It also involves conducting site visits, surveying patient experiences, and evaluating the practices' commitment to evidence-based care. The goal is to create a comprehensive and objective assessment of the healthcare landscape in the target area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical ranking. It's a holistic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem, considering factors that impact patient outcomes. This score should be viewed as a dynamic tool, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve the quality of care. The score can be used to identify areas for improvement, highlight best practices, and advocate for increased investment in healthcare resources.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27544 and Kittrell would be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Physician-to-patient ratios would be a significant component, reflecting the fundamental accessibility of care. The quality of care provided by standout practices would be another key factor, with practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, patient education, and support receiving higher marks. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources would also contribute to the overall score, reflecting the importance of providing comprehensive and accessible care. The resulting score would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the healthcare landscape in the target area and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Franklinton (27544) and Kittrell, NC, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed visualizations of healthcare data, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of access and availability.