27589, Warrenton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27589, Warrenton, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.18 percent of the residents in 27589 has some form of health insurance. 53.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.93 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 27589 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,515 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27589. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,312 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 507 health care providers accessible to residents in 27589, Warrenton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Warrenton, NC (ZIP Code 27589)

This analysis evaluates the preparedness of Warrenton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27589) for lung cancer care, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and offering insights for improvement. The analysis considers factors relevant to early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care, ultimately aiming to assign a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the community's readiness to address this significant health concern.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Warrenton's primary care landscape is the first area of focus. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. National averages provide a benchmark, but local realities often differ. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, is essential to determine the number of primary care physicians actively serving the population within ZIP Code 27589. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. This shortage could lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments for screenings or address concerning symptoms.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are critical. This involves examining the types of primary care practices available: are they primarily solo practices, or are there larger group practices or community health centers? Group practices often offer advantages, such as a broader range of expertise and the ability to share resources. Community health centers, specifically, often serve vulnerable populations and can be vital in providing access to care for individuals who might otherwise face barriers. The presence of these diverse practice types would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The analysis must also consider the operational aspects of primary care. What are the typical wait times for appointments? Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? The ease with which patients can access care directly affects the likelihood of early detection and intervention. Practices that prioritize patient access, through efficient scheduling and flexible hours, would contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the adoption of technology plays a significant role. Telemedicine, in particular, has the potential to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Warrenton. The analysis needs to assess the extent to which primary care practices in the area utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach and provide convenient care options, thereby enhancing the Lung Cancer Score.

Another crucial element is the availability of lung cancer screening services. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals at high risk. Therefore, the analysis must determine whether primary care practices offer or facilitate access to LDCT screening. This includes evaluating whether they adhere to USPSTF guidelines, proactively identify eligible patients, and coordinate referrals to imaging centers. Practices actively engaged in lung cancer screening programs would significantly boost the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized medical resources is vital. While Warrenton might not have a dedicated cancer center, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential. The analysis needs to determine the proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the overall network of care available to patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The presence of established referral pathways and strong collaborations between primary care physicians and specialists is a positive indicator for the Lung Cancer Score.

The mental and emotional well-being of lung cancer patients is paramount. Diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, and access to mental health resources is crucial. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community. Primary care practices that screen for mental health needs and provide referrals to appropriate resources would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Integration of mental health services into the care continuum is crucial for holistic patient support.

Standout practices within the area deserve specific recognition. The analysis should identify any primary care practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. This might involve highlighting practices with robust screening programs, patient education initiatives, or strong partnerships with cancer support organizations. These exemplary practices would serve as models for others in the community.

In conclusion, assessing the preparedness of Warrentton, NC (ZIP Code 27589) for lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. The Lung Cancer Score, derived from this analysis, would reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses in primary care availability, access to specialized services, and support resources. The analysis highlights the critical role of primary care physicians in early detection, the importance of telemedicine adoption, and the need for comprehensive mental health support. Improving these areas would significantly enhance the community's ability to combat lung cancer and improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Warrenton, NC, and to identify potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to analyze healthcare access, resource distribution, and other relevant factors.