27704, Durham, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27704, Durham, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.95 percent of the residents in 27704 has some form of health insurance. 34.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.63 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 27704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,465 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27704. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,856 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45,737 health care providers accessible to residents in 27704, Durham, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27704) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians within ZIP code 27704 in Durham, North Carolina, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care, considering elements crucial for early diagnosis and comprehensive support for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational element. In 27704, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive preventative measures and timely interventions. Analyzing this ratio requires accessing data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and insurance provider networks. The precise number, however, is constantly in flux, and this analysis cannot provide a definitive number.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices across the ZIP code is essential. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? Examining the geographic distribution helps identify potential disparities in access to care. This includes considering the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations. The presence of these facilities can significantly impact the overall accessibility score.

Standout practices in the area deserve specific consideration. Identifying practices known for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings, is paramount. These practices often implement robust systems for patient education, risk assessment, and referral for further evaluation. Evaluating their patient satisfaction scores, as well as their adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., those recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force), provides valuable insight into their quality of care. This also includes assessing their use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to facilitate seamless communication with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited transportation options. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially increase patient engagement and improve adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they play a vital role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support within primary care practices, or readily accessible referral pathways to mental health specialists, is crucial. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, and the availability of resources such as support groups and educational materials.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists in the area, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, directly impacts the quality of care for lung cancer patients. The proximity of these specialists, their reputation, and their ability to provide timely and comprehensive care are critical factors. This involves assessing the availability of specialized diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging techniques, and the presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams.

The integration of these factors into a "Lung Cancer Score" requires a complex methodology. The score should weigh each factor based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of screening programs might receive higher weightings than the availability of telemedicine. The score would then be calculated based on data gathered from various sources, including physician directories, insurance providers, patient surveys, and publicly available health data.

The 27704 area is known for its strong healthcare infrastructure, thanks to the presence of Duke University and other major medical institutions. However, even in areas with robust healthcare systems, disparities in access to care can exist. A comprehensive analysis must consider socioeconomic factors, such as income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation access, to identify potential barriers to care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a static metric. It must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the addition of new practices, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of new screening guidelines. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the score remains a relevant and useful tool for patients and healthcare providers.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the primary care landscape in 27704, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer, is essential for improving patient outcomes. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a more complete picture of the healthcare environment.

Ready to visualize this data and see how the primary care landscape in Durham, NC, and surrounding areas maps out? Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps and gain a visual perspective on the distribution of resources and access to care.