27568, Pine Level, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.91 percent of the residents in 27568 has some form of health insurance. 43.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.03 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 27568 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 459 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27568. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,285 health care providers accessible to residents in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on the availability of resources for lung cancer patients and primary care within ZIP code 27568, specifically Pine Level, North Carolina. It aims to assess the quality and accessibility of healthcare, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice strengths, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This information is crucial for individuals seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Pine Level, like many rural areas, faces challenges in this regard. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population. The ideal physician-to-patient ratio is a subject of ongoing debate, but a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to determine the approximate ratio for Pine Level. This ratio is a crucial indicator of the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms potentially related to lung cancer.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are important. Analyzing practice size, services offered, and patient reviews paints a more complete picture. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Larger groups often have the resources to offer a broader range of services, including on-site diagnostic testing, which can expedite the process of identifying potential lung cancer cases. Patient reviews, accessible through online platforms, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall quality of care. Positive reviews indicate a practice that patients trust and feel comfortable with, which is especially important for patients facing a serious illness like lung cancer.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to access specialists and receive follow-up care without the need for long travel times. The extent to which primary care practices in Pine Level utilize telemedicine for consultations, monitoring, and medication management should be assessed. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can improve access to specialized care, which is vital for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Lung cancer patients often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis should evaluate the proximity and accessibility of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Pine Level area. Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there mental health providers who specialize in oncology or offer support groups for cancer patients? The presence of robust mental health support can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Identifying standout practices involves recognizing those that excel in multiple areas. Practices that demonstrate a strong physician-to-patient ratio, offer a wide range of services, have a positive patient satisfaction record, actively use telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources are considered exemplary. This requires a comprehensive review of available data, including practice websites, insurance provider directories, and publicly available information from healthcare organizations. These practices serve as models for others in the area and can provide valuable insights into best practices for lung cancer care.

The assessment of lung cancer care also requires an understanding of the referral pathways within the healthcare system. How quickly can a patient with suspected lung cancer be referred to a pulmonologist or oncologist? Are there established relationships between primary care practices and specialists in the region? Efficient referral systems are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Delays in referral can lead to advanced stages of lung cancer, making treatment more challenging.

Beyond the immediate medical care, the availability of support services can also be assessed. This includes access to patient navigators who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, support groups for patients and their families, and resources for financial assistance. These services can alleviate some of the burdens associated with a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, improving the overall patient experience.

The analysis also considers the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Factors like insurance coverage, transportation availability, and health literacy can significantly affect a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis should consider how these factors might influence access to lung cancer care in Pine Level.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Pine Level, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This information is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By understanding the current state of lung cancer care, stakeholders can work together to enhance access, improve quality, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

The final assessment will be based on a combination of publicly available data, practice information, and potentially, interviews with healthcare providers and patients. The analysis will aim to provide a clear and concise picture of the resources available for lung cancer patients in Pine Level, NC.

For a more detailed, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pine Level, including the locations of practices, specialists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They can offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available.