27823, Enfield, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.08 percent of the residents in 27823 has some form of health insurance. 51.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.75 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 27823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,438 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27823. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,344 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,792 health care providers accessible to residents in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Enfield, NC (ZIP Code 27823)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 27823 (Enfield, NC), considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The analysis also examines primary care availability in Enfield, recognizing its crucial role in early detection and ongoing care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Enfield, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in relation to lung cancer care.

Enfield, a small town in Halifax County, faces unique healthcare challenges. Rural communities often grapple with limited access to specialized medical services, including those related to oncology. This analysis will consider these realities.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is not a numerical ranking but rather a qualitative assessment based on available data and reasonable inferences. The score considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. These factors are interwoven, creating a complex picture of the healthcare environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental aspect of lung cancer care is early detection, which relies heavily on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Enfield is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. Without readily available primary care, patients may delay seeking medical attention, allowing lung cancer to progress undetected.

Primary care availability is also impacted by factors such as the age of the physicians, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the economic viability of practices. Enfield, like many rural areas, may experience challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This can result in longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing physicians.

The absence of a robust primary care network can also affect the overall health of the community. Individuals with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are at higher risk for lung cancer. Limited access to primary care can exacerbate these conditions, increasing the likelihood of lung cancer development and hindering its early detection.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Services:**

While Enfield itself might not have a large number of specialized oncology practices, the presence of affiliated practices or referral networks to larger hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities like Rocky Mount or Greenville is crucial. The availability of these referral pathways significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for comprehensive lung cancer care.

Standout practices, even if located outside of Enfield, can improve the overall Lung Cancer Score for residents. Practices that offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as bronchoscopy and PET scans, and those that participate in clinical trials, are particularly valuable. The availability of these services within a reasonable travel distance is a significant factor in assessing the quality of care.

The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and support staff, is another key indicator of quality. These teams provide a holistic approach to cancer care, addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in the region is a crucial factor. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can offer more timely and convenient access to care, improving patient outcomes. The availability of reliable internet access in Enfield is also a critical consideration, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

Telemedicine can also be used for educational purposes, providing patients with information about lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options. This can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who specialize in supporting cancer patients.

Access to support groups, both in-person and online, is also important. These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. Support groups can also help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment and connect with other individuals who understand their struggles.

The availability of social workers is another important factor. Social workers can assist patients with practical issues, such as financial assistance, transportation, and home healthcare. They can also advocate for patients and connect them with community resources.

**Overall Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for Enfield, NC (ZIP code 27823) is likely to be impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of telemedicine will be key determinants. While the town may not have all the resources of a larger urban center, the strength of referral networks, the presence of any standout practices, and the availability of mental health support will significantly influence the overall assessment.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Enfield is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes. The availability of data on physician practices, patient demographics, and healthcare resources is essential for informed decision-making.

To further explore the healthcare environment in Enfield and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and access to specialized services. This can help patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and inform your healthcare decisions.