27573, Roxboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27573, Roxboro, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.06 percent of the residents in 27573 has some form of health insurance. 54.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.38 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 27573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,702 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27573. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,032 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 563 health care providers accessible to residents in 27573, Roxboro, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care access within ZIP Code 27573 (Roxboro, North Carolina), focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. We'll examine physician availability, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive services, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this community.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is the availability of qualified medical professionals. Within 27573, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation, impacting survival rates. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting greater accessibility, can facilitate earlier detection and intervention. Detailed data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is essential. This would involve analyzing the number of practicing PCPs and the population size. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and state medical boards could provide this data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of specialists is crucial. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The presence and accessibility of these specialists within or near 27573 significantly influence patient outcomes. Proximity to larger medical centers or hospitals with comprehensive cancer care facilities is a positive factor. The availability of these specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the ease of referral processes are all critical considerations.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key element in evaluating healthcare access. Telemedicine, which includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic communication, can significantly enhance the delivery of care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Roxboro. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease with which patients can access these services are important indicators. Practices that offer virtual follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and potentially improved outcomes.

The quality of primary care is a vital component of lung cancer care. Early detection through regular screenings, risk assessments, and patient education are all functions of primary care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening programs (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and provide thorough patient education are likely to contribute to better outcomes. The integration of evidence-based guidelines and best practices in primary care is another factor to consider.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are crucial in the context of lung cancer. A cancer diagnosis can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, and the ease of access to these services are critical. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, referrals to mental health specialists, or support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Standout practices within 27573 are those that excel in the areas discussed above. These practices may have higher physician-to-patient ratios, readily available specialists, robust telemedicine offerings, a strong emphasis on preventative care, and integrated mental health services. Identifying these practices requires detailed research, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and practice websites.

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Roxboro plays a significant role. The presence of a well-equipped hospital, cancer centers, and support organizations (e.g., the American Cancer Society) can enhance patient care. The availability of transportation services to and from medical appointments is also a factor, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling.

To obtain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, it is important to analyze the insurance coverage of the population. The percentage of insured individuals, the types of insurance plans available, and the acceptance of various insurance providers by local practices can impact access to care. Patients with limited or no insurance may face significant barriers to accessing necessary medical services.

The effectiveness of communication and coordination among healthcare providers is another important factor. Practices that have strong referral networks, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information, and participate in care coordination programs are likely to provide more seamless and efficient care. The ability of patients to easily access their medical records and communicate with their healthcare providers is also critical.

The availability of patient education materials and resources is also crucial. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This can include brochures, websites, and educational programs.

The integration of technology, specifically the use of electronic health records (EHRs), is a key factor. EHRs can improve communication between providers, reduce medical errors, and facilitate the sharing of patient information. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs and use them effectively are likely to provide better coordinated care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in 27573 and primary care availability in Roxboro requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, the emphasis on preventative care, the integration of mental health services, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. It is crucial to consider the specific needs of the community, including access to transportation, insurance coverage, and the availability of patient education materials. A comprehensive analysis would provide a more nuanced and actionable understanding of the healthcare landscape in Roxboro, North Carolina.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 27573, including the locations of medical practices, specialists, and support services, we recommend exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing this data, allowing you to easily identify areas with high and low access to care, and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.