27576, Selma, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27576, Selma, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.76 percent of the residents in 27576 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.24 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 27576 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,252 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27576. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,920 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,211 health care providers accessible to residents in 27576, Selma, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Selma, NC (ZIP Code 27576)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within Selma, North Carolina (ZIP code 27576), focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care, and access to supporting resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial factors in a patient's journey. The analysis aims to offer a nuanced perspective, not just a simple ranking, but a holistic view of the healthcare resources available.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Selma's primary care landscape is a critical element. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation, significantly impacting patient outcomes. The availability of primary care is the first hurdle to clear.

The analysis considers the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 27576 ZIP code and in surrounding areas. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for this calculation. The ratio is then compared to national and state averages to determine Selma's standing. A higher ratio than the state or national average would suggest a potential deficit in primary care access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is also evaluated. This involves examining factors such as the availability of same-day appointments, extended office hours, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that embrace technology, like patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling, often demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and efficient care. The presence of board-certified physicians and their specialties also play a role.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area. The ability to access virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists can be a game-changer, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. The analysis assesses the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including the types of consultations available (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management) and the technology platforms used.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to Selma is assessed, along with the ease of referral from primary care physicians. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with oncology services is a significant advantage, as it reduces travel time and facilitates coordination of care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of lung cancer care. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be immense. The analysis examines the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community. It also considers the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists.

Standout practices are identified based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area. They are characterized by a patient-centered approach, the use of technology to improve care, and a commitment to providing comprehensive support.

The analysis also considers the availability of support groups and patient education resources. These resources can provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The presence of these resources within the community, and their accessibility, is an important consideration.

The analysis also considers the patient experience, including patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews. These provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience. Patient feedback is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that healthcare providers are meeting the needs of their patients.

The analysis also considers the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing access to smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. The analysis assesses the availability of these programs within the community, including the types of programs offered (e.g., individual counseling, group therapy, medication) and their accessibility.

The analysis acknowledges that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies are continually emerging. This analysis provides a snapshot in time, and it is essential to update the information regularly to reflect these changes.

The data gathered and analyzed for this report is from publicly available sources, and the methodology is designed to provide a fair and objective assessment of the healthcare resources available in Selma, NC (27576). The findings are intended to be informative and to support patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders in their efforts to improve lung cancer care.

The analysis does not provide a definitive ranking, but rather a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. It's a starting point for a deeper dive into the healthcare resources available in Selma, NC (27576).

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the healthcare landscape of Selma, NC (27576) and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data.