27808, Bath, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27808, Bath, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.14 percent of the residents in 27808 has some form of health insurance. 33.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.08 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 27808 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 318 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27808. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 643 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 271 health care providers accessible to residents in 27808, Bath, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare in 27808 and Bath, NC

This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective on healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 27808 (Greenville, NC) and specifically addresses primary care availability in the nearby town of Bath, North Carolina. The focus is on factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. While a definitive numerical score is beyond the scope of this analysis, a qualitative assessment is offered, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform patient decision-making and potential areas for healthcare improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is critical. Regular check-ups with primary care physicians (PCPs) are essential for identifying potential symptoms and facilitating referrals to specialists. Physician-to-patient ratios are a significant indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments and more individualized care. Within 27808, and especially in the more rural area of Bath, the ratio can fluctuate, potentially placing a strain on existing resources. This can impact the ability of patients to schedule timely appointments for screenings and follow-up care.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in patient care, are vital in any healthcare landscape. Identifying practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and comprehensive health screenings, is crucial. Within 27808, practices affiliated with Vidant Health, the major healthcare provider in the region, often have a broader range of resources and access to specialists. Evaluating practices based on their patient satisfaction scores, adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and the availability of multidisciplinary teams (including pulmonologists, oncologists, and surgeons) is paramount. In Bath, the availability of these specialized services may be more limited, highlighting the importance of identifying practices that offer efficient referral pathways to Greenville-based specialists.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Bath. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in 27808 is a key factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility limitations or living in areas with limited transportation options. The availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients residing in Bath. Assessing the ease of use of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are essential considerations.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to mental health professionals, are highly valuable. Within 27808, the presence of mental health specialists and support groups specifically focused on cancer patients and their families is an important indicator. The availability of these resources in Bath may be more limited, emphasizing the importance of primary care physicians being able to identify and address mental health needs, and facilitate referrals to specialists in Greenville.

Analyzing the availability of smoking cessation programs is also crucial. Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking, and effective cessation programs are a vital component of preventative care. The presence of evidence-based programs, including counseling and medication options, within both primary care practices and community health centers is an important factor. Evaluating the success rates of these programs and their accessibility to patients in both 27808 and Bath is essential.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for healthcare in 27808 and Bath is multifaceted. While 27808 benefits from a more extensive healthcare infrastructure, including a major hospital system, the availability of specialists, and potentially greater access to mental health resources, the score is influenced by physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of standout practices. Bath, with its more rural setting, presents unique challenges, including potentially limited access to specialists and mental health services. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of strong primary care practices with effective referral pathways can significantly improve access to care for residents of Bath. The overall score is a reflection of a complex interplay of factors, and the need for ongoing assessment and improvement is crucial.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 27808 and Bath, NC, and to gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility of care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and the distribution of resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality.