The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27606, Raleigh, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.00 percent of the residents in 27606 has some form of health insurance. 18.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.06 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 27606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 7,547 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27606. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,711 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 25,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 27606, Raleigh, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27606, Raleigh, North Carolina
Lung Cancer Score | 43 |
---|---|
People Score | 13 |
Provider Score | 41 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 73 |
27606 | Raleigh | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27606) - A Primary Care Perspective
Analyzing the landscape of primary care in Raleigh's 27606 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach, especially considering its impact on early lung cancer detection and patient support. This analysis will delve into key factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility**
The foundation of a strong "Lung Cancer Score" lies in the accessibility of primary care. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 27606 is essential. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau would be crucial for this calculation.
Furthermore, proximity to primary care practices is a key factor. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating "healthcare deserts" for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? Public transportation options and ease of access for individuals with mobility limitations also contribute to the overall accessibility score. Areas with robust public transit and practices offering convenient parking and accessibility features will score higher.
**Standout Practices: Quality and Preventative Care**
Beyond simple availability, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves evaluating several factors, including patient reviews, physician experience, and the practice's commitment to preventative care, particularly lung cancer screening. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and surveys, are more likely to foster trust and encourage regular check-ups.
The adoption of evidence-based practices, such as the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is a crucial indicator. Practices actively screening eligible patients for lung cancer, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), demonstrate a proactive approach to early detection. Identifying practices that actively promote and facilitate smoking cessation programs is equally important. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation support is vital for prevention.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**
Telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly in areas with limited access to in-person care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver health education can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce delays in care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-ups, medication management, and even initial consultations, deserve recognition.
However, it's crucial to assess the quality of telemedicine services. Are they user-friendly, accessible to all patients, and integrated seamlessly into the practice's workflow? The availability of telehealth for specialist referrals, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, can also enhance the overall care continuum. Practices that have invested in robust telehealth platforms and training for both physicians and patients will score higher.
**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.
The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support for patients and their families. Practices that actively educate patients about the psychological impact of cancer and provide resources for coping with stress, anxiety, and depression will contribute positively to the score. The integration of mental health screenings into routine primary care visits is another important factor to consider.
**The Overall "Lung Cancer Score"**
The "Lung Cancer Score" for 27606 will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a ZIP code with readily accessible, high-quality primary care, proactive lung cancer screening practices, robust telemedicine options, and ample mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, poorer patient outcomes, and increased healthcare disparities.
**Conclusion**
Understanding the nuances of primary care availability and quality within 27606 is essential for improving the "Lung Cancer Score." Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating access to mental health resources are all critical steps. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of primary care in this area.
**Call to Action:**
For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Raleigh, NC, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas that may benefit from targeted interventions.
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