27812, Bethel, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27812, Bethel, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.03 percent of the residents in 27812 has some form of health insurance. 47.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.44 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 27812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 109 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27812. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 603 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,756 health care providers accessible to residents in 27812, Bethel, North Carolina.

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in Bethel, North Carolina (ZIP code 27812). The evaluation considers factors impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and integration of supportive services. This information is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.

Bethel, a small town in Pitt County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting influences the availability of specialists and the adoption of advanced technologies. The analysis begins by examining the physician-to-patient ratio within the 27812 ZIP code, specifically focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, crucial for lung cancer screening and treatment.

The ideal physician-to-patient ratio varies, but a higher ratio of PCPs generally indicates better access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. The availability of pulmonologists is particularly important for timely diagnosis and management of lung cancer. The current ratio in Bethel is compared to state and national averages to gauge the area's access to these essential specialists.

Next, we analyze the characteristics of primary care practices in Bethel. This includes evaluating the presence of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitate information sharing and care coordination. Practices with advanced EHR systems often have better capabilities for tracking patient health data, scheduling screenings, and communicating with specialists. The analysis also considers the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray machines, which can expedite the diagnostic process.

Standout practices are identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care, adoption of innovative technologies, and integration of supportive services. These practices may have implemented patient portals for easy access to medical records and communication with providers. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer prevention and early detection.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas with limited mobility or transportation options. The analysis assesses the extent to which Bethel practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of lung cancer care.

Mental health resources are integrated into the assessment. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is vital for patient well-being. The analysis examines the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within primary care practices or through referrals. It also considers the integration of mental health services with other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care.

Furthermore, the analysis evaluates the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for preventing the disease. The assessment considers the availability of counseling, medication, and support groups to help patients quit smoking. These programs can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer and improve overall health outcomes.

The evaluation also considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs. Early detection through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans can significantly improve survival rates. The analysis assesses the availability of screening programs in Bethel, including the eligibility criteria, screening frequency, and follow-up protocols. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening are considered favorably.

The analysis also examines the integration of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and support to patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. The availability of palliative care specialists, such as nurses and social workers, can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families. The assessment considers the availability of palliative care services within primary care practices or through referrals.

The overall ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for Bethel is determined by weighing the factors discussed above. The score reflects the area's strengths and weaknesses in providing lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather an assessment of the current state of healthcare in the area.

The analysis considers the presence of patient navigators. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who help patients navigate the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their treatment journey. The availability of patient navigators can improve patient outcomes by ensuring that patients receive timely access to care and support services.

The analysis also considers the availability of support groups for lung cancer patients and their families. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The availability of support groups can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

The analysis also considers the availability of financial assistance programs. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial assistance programs can help patients cover the cost of care. The assessment considers the availability of financial assistance programs within primary care practices or through referrals. These programs can reduce the financial burden on patients and improve their access to care.

In conclusion, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ analysis for Bethel, North Carolina (ZIP code 27812) highlights the importance of access to primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health and supportive services. The evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in the area, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare accessibility and practice locations in Bethel and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer valuable insights into healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the region.