27851, Lucama, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27851, Lucama, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.38 percent of the residents in 27851 has some form of health insurance. 41.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.79 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 27851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27851. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 827 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,279 health care providers accessible to residents in 27851, Lucama, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lucama, NC (ZIP Code 27851)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 27851 (Lucama, North Carolina), focusing on primary care availability and related factors impacting patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of resources and identify areas for improvement, ultimately informing patient access to quality care. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and address the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective lung cancer management.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Lucama, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, public health reports and local healthcare databases provide estimates. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care. Analyzing this ratio, along with the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas, offers a crucial starting point for assessing the overall healthcare environment.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality of primary care is paramount. Standout practices in Lucama, if any, are those that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and preventative care. This includes proactive screening for at-risk individuals, particularly those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for efficient tracking of patient history, test results, and treatment plans, are also highly valued. Identifying these practices, even if they are located outside of the immediate ZIP code but serve patients within it, is crucial for understanding the best options available to residents. Patient reviews, surveys, and data from healthcare rating websites can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial factor in the delivery of modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas like Lucama to access specialist consultations and follow-up care without extensive travel. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for pulmonology and oncology, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs and specialists, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is essential. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access, especially for those facing mobility challenges or living in areas with limited specialist availability.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often come with significant emotional and psychological burdens. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients and their families throughout their journey. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Lucama and the surrounding areas is vital. This includes identifying mental health providers who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Furthermore, understanding the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and wait times, is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the support they need.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support groups and patient education programs. These resources provide valuable opportunities for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Identifying local support groups, educational workshops, and community outreach programs can help patients feel less isolated and more empowered to manage their condition.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Lucama, NC (ZIP Code 27851) would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment characterized by a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources and support programs. A low score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and increasing access to mental health services.

To improve the score, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more PCPs and specialists to the area would directly address physician shortages. Promoting telemedicine adoption through incentives and training programs could expand access to care. Investing in mental health services and support groups would address the emotional needs of patients. Collaborating with local hospitals and healthcare systems to establish comprehensive lung cancer screening programs would facilitate early detection.

Finally, the analysis should consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence patient outcomes. Understanding these factors and addressing any disparities can help ensure that all residents of Lucama have equal access to quality lung cancer care.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Lucama, NC, focusing on lung cancer care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can identify opportunities to improve patient outcomes and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. This includes a focus on early detection, comprehensive treatment, and robust support services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lucama, NC, including the geographical distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides detailed visualizations of healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of access to care and identifying potential areas for improvement.