27609, Raleigh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27609, Raleigh, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.70 percent of the residents in 27609 has some form of health insurance. 24.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.38 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 27609 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,909 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27609. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,009 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,837 health care providers accessible to residents in 27609, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27609)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care accessibility and quality within the 27609 ZIP code of Raleigh, North Carolina, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment for individuals at risk or currently undergoing treatment for lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt referral to specialists, and ongoing management of comorbidities are all critical functions of a primary care physician. In 27609, the density and accessibility of primary care providers are paramount. We need to assess the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code, and the patient-to-physician ratio. A higher ratio suggests a potential strain on resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This impacts the ability to provide preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and offer timely referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This involves evaluating the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as regular cancer screenings, smoking cessation programs, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing. Practices that proactively implement these measures are likely to provide superior care. The presence of certified patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs) within the area would be a significant positive indicator, suggesting a commitment to coordinated, comprehensive care.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is another critical factor. The geographical proximity of these specialists to primary care practices within 27609 is crucial. A shorter distance and ease of referral translate to quicker access to diagnosis and treatment. We need to assess the number of specialists practicing in or near the ZIP code, their respective specializations, and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach, including radiation oncology, chemotherapy, and surgical services, would significantly enhance the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare delivery, especially in areas with limited access to specialists or for patients with mobility challenges. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in 27609 is a key indicator. Telemedicine facilitates virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, which can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and potentially expedite care. The availability of telehealth options for lung cancer patients, including access to specialists and support groups, should be evaluated.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often involve significant emotional and psychological distress. The integration of mental health resources within the healthcare system is therefore essential. This includes the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), who specialize in oncology or chronic illness. The presence of on-site mental health services within primary care practices or cancer centers is a strong positive indicator. Equally important is the availability of referrals to mental health professionals in the community and the integration of mental health support into the overall care plan.

Specific practices within 27609 may stand out for their commitment to lung cancer care. These could be practices that demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, actively participate in clinical trials, or have implemented innovative approaches to care delivery. Identifying these standout practices requires a thorough review of patient reviews, physician ratings, and publicly available data on quality metrics. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide comprehensive support for patients quitting tobacco use are also likely to receive higher scores.

Another important factor is the availability of support groups and educational resources for lung cancer patients and their families. These resources provide emotional support, practical guidance, and opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, and the availability of educational materials in multiple languages are valuable indicators.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 27609 will be a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed. A higher score reflects a healthcare environment that is more conducive to early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive support for lung cancer patients. The score will be influenced by the density of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape requires a systematic approach. This involves collecting data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and private healthcare databases. We need to analyze physician directories, hospital websites, and patient reviews to gather information about the availability of services, the quality of care, and the patient experience.

This analysis is not just about numbers; it’s about the human experience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals affected by lung cancer in 27609. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, we can inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of treatment, and provide better support for patients and their families. This includes providing a map-based visual representation of the healthcare landscape.

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