27712, Durham, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27712, Durham, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.91 percent of the residents in 27712 has some form of health insurance. 25.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.76 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 27712 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,449 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27712. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,687 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 44,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 27712, Durham, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27712) & Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Durham, NC's 27712 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment considering key factors that influence patient outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and supportive services. The goal is to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals navigating a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on timely access to qualified medical professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. While precise, granular data on pulmonologists and oncologists specifically within 27712 is difficult to obtain publicly, we can extrapolate based on Durham County's overall figures and the presence of major healthcare systems. Duke Health and UNC Health Care, both prominent in the region, generally contribute to a favorable physician-to-population ratio compared to many rural areas. However, this advantage doesn't guarantee equitable distribution. The availability of specialists within a reasonable travel distance for patients, especially those with mobility limitations, is a critical consideration.

Primary care access is a crucial determinant of early detection, a key factor in lung cancer survival rates. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) who are actively screening for lung cancer, particularly among high-risk populations (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), is paramount. This involves not only the presence of PCPs but also their adherence to screening guidelines, which can vary. Practices that proactively offer lung cancer screenings, utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), are highly valued.

Standout practices within the 27712 ZIP code and surrounding areas will likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes integrated services like smoking cessation programs, which are essential for improving patient outcomes and preventing recurrence. Practices that offer on-site or readily accessible support groups, educational resources, and patient navigators to guide individuals through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery are particularly commendable. Moreover, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies, contribute significantly to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Technological integration plays an increasingly important role. Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine platforms, allowing patients to connect with their physicians virtually, can mitigate geographical barriers and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those undergoing treatment. The efficiency of electronic health records (EHRs) and the seamless exchange of patient information between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists are also vital.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients with lung cancer. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a vital component of a comprehensive care model. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are highly valued. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a hallmark of a high-quality practice.

Assessing the Lung Cancer Score for 27712 requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. It's not simply about the number of physicians or the presence of advanced technology. It's about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the integration of support systems. The presence of major healthcare systems like Duke and UNC, with their associated resources and research capabilities, suggests a potentially high score. However, a more in-depth analysis would require assessing the specific practices within the ZIP code, evaluating their adherence to screening guidelines, their commitment to patient support, and their adoption of telemedicine.

The analysis would also need to consider the demographics of the population within 27712, including age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, would also be a key consideration. Furthermore, the availability of palliative care services, which focus on improving quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 27712 is likely favorable, given the presence of major healthcare systems and the potential for access to specialized care. However, a definitive score requires a more detailed investigation into the specific practices within the area, their adherence to best practices, and their commitment to patient-centered care. The availability of primary care physicians who actively screen for lung cancer, the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health resources are all essential components of a high-quality care model.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Durham and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing you to assess the accessibility of care within the 27712 ZIP code and beyond.