27546, Lillington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27546, Lillington, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.06 percent of the residents in 27546 has some form of health insurance. 34.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.91 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 27546 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,822 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27546. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,440 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,663 health care providers accessible to residents in 27546, Lillington, North Carolina.

The task requires a nuanced assessment, not a simple ranking. A true "Lung Cancer Score" for physicians is complex, reliant on data not readily available publicly. This analysis focuses on factors relevant to lung cancer care within the constraints, offering insights into physician availability and resources in ZIP Code 27546 (Lillington, NC) and the surrounding area.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Lillington, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas necessitates a multifaceted approach. We cannot generate a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" in the requested format. However, we can assess the availability of resources and healthcare professionals relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support within the specified geographic parameters. The focus will be on the primary care infrastructure, as it forms the critical gateway for early detection and referral, and the broader healthcare ecosystem.

The primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense. Their role in lung cancer detection is crucial. They often identify symptoms, order initial screenings, and facilitate referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs is, therefore, a vital component. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data on these ratios for ZIP Code 27546 specifically is difficult to obtain publicly with precision. However, we can infer general trends based on county-level data and regional averages. Harnett County, where Lillington is located, may experience challenges in PCP availability, especially in rural areas. This necessitates exploring the proximity of nearby towns and cities like Fayetteville or Sanford, which may offer more robust healthcare options.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive screening. Identifying specific practices that excel requires detailed research, including reviewing patient reviews, assessing accreditations, and evaluating their participation in community health initiatives. These practices may prioritize early detection through smoking cessation programs, offering convenient appointment scheduling, and fostering strong relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists. They might also actively participate in clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments. This level of granular data is difficult to collect without direct access to practice-specific information.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. It can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in and around Lillington needs investigation. Practices that embrace telehealth can provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

Mental health resources are critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential. The availability of these resources within the community, or through referrals, can significantly impact the quality of life for patients. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and support groups tailored to cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system is a key indicator of a supportive environment.

The referral network is crucial. The ability of PCPs to effectively refer patients to specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is paramount. A strong referral network ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care. This includes the efficiency of the referral process, the availability of specialists, and the coordination of care between different healthcare providers. Proximity to specialized cancer centers and hospitals with advanced treatment options is also a consideration.

The accessibility of diagnostic tools is a factor. The availability of CT scanners, PET scans, and other diagnostic equipment is essential for early detection and staging of lung cancer. The proximity of these facilities to Lillington is important. Longer travel times can delay diagnosis and treatment.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is a critical component of any lung cancer prevention strategy. These programs can help individuals quit smoking and reduce their risk of developing lung cancer. The presence of these programs within the community or through referrals from PCPs is a positive indicator.

Assessing the quality of care also involves looking at patient outcomes. While specific lung cancer survival rates for practices in ZIP Code 27546 are difficult to obtain, general data on cancer survival rates in the region can provide some insights. Factors such as early detection, access to advanced treatments, and patient adherence to treatment plans all influence survival rates.

The overall healthcare landscape in and around Lillington appears to have challenges that are common in rural areas. Physician shortages, particularly in primary care, can limit access to timely diagnosis and treatment. While specific data on lung cancer outcomes and practice performance is not readily available, a focus on primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources can offer insights into the overall quality of care.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. These maps can also incorporate data on demographics, socioeconomic factors, and other relevant information.