27605, Raleigh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27605, Raleigh, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.34 percent of the residents in 27605 has some form of health insurance. 16.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.26 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 27605 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 285 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27605. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 822 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,782 health care providers accessible to residents in 27605, Raleigh, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians in ZIP Code 27605 and Primary Care Availability in Raleigh**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 27605 in Raleigh, North Carolina, is crucial for understanding the potential for early lung cancer detection and comprehensive patient care. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests greater accessibility and potentially more individualized care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the American Medical Association are essential for determining the number of active PCPs practicing within 27605. This data, combined with population figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, allows for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, for example, might indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings.

Identifying standout practices within 27605 requires a multifaceted approach. This involves analyzing patient reviews on platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. These reviews offer insights into patient satisfaction, physician communication skills, and the overall quality of care. Furthermore, examining the practices’ accreditation status and their participation in quality improvement programs, such as those offered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can indicate a commitment to providing high-quality care. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to preventative care, including promoting lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, should be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals significantly enhances access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those residing in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and secure messaging, are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The availability of telemedicine can be a game-changer for patients needing follow-up appointments after a lung cancer screening or for managing chronic conditions.

The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is increasingly recognized as essential. The diagnosis of lung cancer, even at an early stage, can be a significant emotional and psychological burden. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to support patients through their cancer journey. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources is vital.

Examining the presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs within the practices in 27605 is crucial. These programs typically involve a combination of patient education, risk assessment, and low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals. Practices that actively promote and implement these programs are demonstrating a commitment to early detection and improved patient outcomes. This includes adherence to guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding eligibility criteria for lung cancer screenings.

The overall primary care availability in Raleigh, beyond the specific boundaries of 27605, is also a significant consideration. A shortage of PCPs in the broader Raleigh area can put a strain on the healthcare system, potentially impacting access to care for residents of 27605. Analyzing data on PCP distribution across the city, including the availability of specialists and hospital resources, provides a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the PCPs in 27605. Factors such as age, race, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can influence access to care and health outcomes. Understanding the specific needs of the patient population is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the primary care system.

The analysis must evaluate the quality of care provided by the PCPs. This includes assessing the practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Data on patient outcomes, such as cancer stage at diagnosis and survival rates, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. This requires access to data from reliable sources, such as the North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics.

The analysis should also consider the role of community resources in supporting patients with lung cancer. This includes the availability of support groups, patient navigation services, and financial assistance programs. PCPs who actively connect their patients with these resources are demonstrating a commitment to providing comprehensive care.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in 27605 and Raleigh requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and the availability of lung cancer screening programs. Analyzing these factors provides a detailed understanding of the accessibility and quality of care. This analysis should incorporate data from various sources, including patient reviews, accreditation information, and outcome data.

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and to visualize the data discussed, explore the power of location intelligence. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician density, telemedicine adoption rates, and other relevant factors, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis of the healthcare landscape in 27605 and beyond.