27551, Macon, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27551, Macon, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.59 percent of the residents in 27551 has some form of health insurance. 47.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.11 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 27551 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 252 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27551. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 589 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 53 health care providers accessible to residents in 27551, Macon, North Carolina.

The analysis of lung cancer care and primary care availability in the context of ZIP Code 27551 (likely representing a specific geographic area) and Macon, Georgia, requires a nuanced approach. We will assess the landscape of healthcare providers, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This will incorporate an evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the constraints of the provided parameters.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility. In ZIP Code 27551, research would be needed to determine the precise ratio of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists to the population. This data, readily available through state medical boards and healthcare databases, would be essential to establish a baseline for comparison. Macon, as a larger urban center, might exhibit a different ratio, potentially benefiting from a greater concentration of specialists, but also potentially facing challenges related to the distribution of these resources across the city.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves examining factors like the experience and board certifications of physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., low-dose CT scans for early detection), the presence of multidisciplinary teams (including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists), and patient outcomes. Researching patient reviews, hospital ratings, and participation in clinical trials can help identify practices that excel in lung cancer care. For ZIP Code 27551, this might involve analyzing the affiliated hospitals and clinics, while in Macon, a broader search would be necessary, considering the presence of larger medical centers and specialized cancer treatment facilities.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, especially in areas with limited resources or for patients facing mobility challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, potentially reducing travel time and improving access to specialists. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in ZIP Code 27551 and Macon would involve investigating the availability of telehealth services offered by local primary care practices, pulmonology clinics, and oncology centers. This includes determining the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology platforms used, and the accessibility of these services to patients. The adoption rate can be a key indicator of a practice’s commitment to patient convenience and access to care.

The integration of mental health resources is crucial for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of this disease can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Evaluating the availability of mental health support involves examining the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors) within the healthcare system. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site mental health services, have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, or provide access to support groups and other resources. The integration of mental health services demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

In evaluating the quality of care, it's important to consider the overall healthcare infrastructure. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and advanced imaging modalities. The presence of radiation therapy centers and surgical facilities capable of performing complex thoracic procedures is also critical. The proximity of these resources to patients in ZIP Code 27551 and Macon would be a significant factor in determining the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the availability of supportive care services, such as palliative care and rehabilitation programs, is essential. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, while rehabilitation programs help patients regain strength and function after treatment. Assessing the presence of these services would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in both areas.

In Macon, the presence of larger medical centers and specialized cancer treatment facilities might offer a broader range of services and expertise. However, it's crucial to assess the accessibility of these resources for patients in different parts of the city. In ZIP Code 27551, the analysis would need to focus on the resources available within the immediate area, as well as the accessibility of services in nearby towns and cities.

When assessing the availability of primary care, factors such as appointment availability, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management) are important. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in early detection and management of lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking cessation.

The analysis of lung cancer care and primary care availability in these two geographic areas requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices based on quality of care and patient outcomes, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment will provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements are needed to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

To visualize and explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to care, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you understand the geographic relationships between patients and providers, identify areas with limited access to care, and support informed decision-making.