27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.17 percent of the residents in 27577 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 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 27577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)**

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Smithfield, North Carolina (ZIP code 27577) requires a multi-faceted approach. A “Lung Cancer Score” for physicians in this area, and the availability of primary care, must consider factors beyond simple metrics. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the presence of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive overview of the care environment.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists serving ZIP code 27577 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, can provide a preliminary estimate. However, this estimate needs refinement. It is crucial to consider the patient demographics within the ZIP code – age distribution, prevalence of smoking history, and existing health conditions – as these factors significantly impact the demand for lung cancer screening and treatment. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of providers, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a favorable ratio would contribute positively.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. This includes those offering comprehensive screening programs, utilizing advanced diagnostic technologies (e.g., low-dose CT scans), and employing multidisciplinary teams. The presence of a dedicated pulmonology practice, particularly one with board-certified specialists, is a strong indicator. Furthermore, the availability of on-site oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is a significant advantage. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research initiatives also receive high marks, demonstrating a commitment to advancing lung cancer treatment. These practices would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for rural communities like Smithfield. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can enhance access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and HIPAA-compliant communication, deserve recognition. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients needing specialist consultations or follow-up care after treatment. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the extent of telemedicine integration within local practices.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed clinical social workers, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also beneficial. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the availability of mental health support services within the local healthcare ecosystem.

Primary care availability in Smithfield is a foundational element. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at risk for lung cancer. Their ability to provide preventative care, including smoking cessation counseling and early screening referrals, is essential. The accessibility of PCPs, including appointment availability and insurance acceptance, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. A shortage of PCPs or limited access to care would negatively affect the overall score.

To calculate the Lung Cancer Score, a weighted system is necessary. Each factor – physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, the presence of a dedicated pulmonology practice might carry a higher weight than the availability of a single support group. The weighted scores for each factor would then be combined to produce an overall Lung Cancer Score, providing a comprehensive assessment of the care environment in Smithfield.

Specific examples of practices in Smithfield would require extensive research, including direct outreach to local healthcare providers. However, based on publicly available information, it is possible to identify potential candidates for standout practices. These could include practices affiliated with larger hospital systems or those advertising specialized services related to lung health. Thorough investigation would be needed to confirm their qualifications.

The analysis also needs to consider the broader healthcare landscape in Johnston County, where Smithfield is located. The availability of specialized services, such as thoracic surgery and radiation oncology, at nearby hospitals or medical centers is essential. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the analysis should account for patient demographics and health disparities. Are there specific populations within Smithfield that face greater barriers to accessing care? Are there efforts to address these disparities? These considerations are crucial for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer care.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the implementation of new treatment protocols. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the Lung Cancer Score remains a relevant and useful tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Ultimately, understanding the nuances of lung cancer care in Smithfield, NC, requires a detailed, data-driven approach. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Smithfield, NC, and gain deeper insights into physician locations, practice specialties, and access to care, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify patterns, trends, and potential gaps in care.