27604, Raleigh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27604, Raleigh, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.02 percent of the residents in 27604 has some form of health insurance. 29.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.30 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 27604 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,886 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27604. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,373 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,163 health care providers accessible to residents in 27604, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27604)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 27604 ZIP code of Raleigh, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial to early detection and effective management of lung cancer. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or those at high risk. This analysis aims to evaluate the landscape of primary care in 27604, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer prevention and treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient load per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time available for thorough patient evaluations, including those related to lung cancer screening and risk assessment. Conversely, a lower ratio allows for more individualized care, including potentially more frequent check-ups and easier access to appointments for patients with concerning symptoms. The ideal ratio varies, but in a setting like 27604, the ability to schedule timely appointments for those at risk is crucial.

Standout practices in the 27604 area often demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively identify and engage eligible patients for screening, coupled with robust follow-up protocols for suspicious findings, are considered highly favorable. These practices also prioritize patient education about lung cancer risk factors, including smoking cessation programs and resources.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in modern healthcare delivery, particularly for patients who may find it difficult to travel or who require frequent follow-up appointments. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their care models can improve access to care, especially for those residing in underserved areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and post-treatment follow-up, all of which are essential components of lung cancer care. The ability to provide these services remotely enhances the overall patient experience and can contribute to improved outcomes.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within a primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have strong partnerships with mental health professionals can provide patients with the support they need to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with lung cancer. This support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life.

Evaluating the 27604 area requires a nuanced understanding of the healthcare infrastructure. The presence of large hospital systems, like those found in the greater Raleigh area, can positively influence the quality of care. These systems often have dedicated cancer centers and multidisciplinary teams specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, the accessibility of these specialized services from within the 27604 ZIP code is a key consideration. Proximity to these resources, ease of referral, and the coordination of care between PCPs and specialists are all important factors.

The analysis also considers the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices with robust EHR systems can streamline patient data management, facilitate communication between healthcare providers, and improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning. EHRs can also be used to identify patients who meet screening criteria and to track their progress throughout the care continuum. The integration of EHRs with patient portals can empower patients to actively participate in their care by providing access to their medical records and test results.

The socioeconomic factors of the 27604 ZIP code are also relevant. Areas with higher rates of smoking, air pollution, or other environmental risk factors may require a more proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection. Primary care practices in these areas should be particularly vigilant in identifying high-risk individuals and providing appropriate screening and support services. This may involve targeted outreach programs, community education initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations.

Furthermore, the analysis takes into account the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs are crucial for reducing the risk of developing the disease. Practices that offer evidence-based smoking cessation interventions, such as counseling and medication, can play a vital role in preventing lung cancer. The integration of these programs into primary care is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for PCPs in 27604 is a composite of these factors. Practices that demonstrate excellence in all these areas, including low physician-to-patient ratios, proactive screening, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and robust EHR systems, will receive the highest scores. These practices are best positioned to provide comprehensive and patient-centered lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in 27604, including the location of practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow users to visualize and analyze healthcare data, helping to identify areas with the greatest need for resources and support.

**Visit CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area and to make informed decisions about your health.**