27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.42 percent of the residents in 27855 has some form of health insurance. 46.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.25 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 27855 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27855. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality, specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care within ZIP code 27855 (Murfreesboro, North Carolina). The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, not a simple ranking.

Murfreesboro, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Early detection of lung cancer often hinges on regular check-ups and screenings initiated by a PCP. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from reliable sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the American Medical Association would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 27855. This information would reveal whether the community faces a shortage of PCPs, a situation that could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there solo practices, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often offer a wider range of services and may have better resources for coordinating care. Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers in the area? These facilities play a vital role in serving low-income and uninsured patients, who may be at higher risk for lung cancer due to factors like smoking and exposure to environmental hazards. The presence of these resources is a significant factor in evaluating overall healthcare accessibility.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, would score favorably. This includes practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and offer education on lung cancer risk factors. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to easily share patient information and track progress. Practices with robust EHR systems that integrate seamlessly with other healthcare providers would be considered more advanced.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of this analysis. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where patients may face long travel distances to see specialists. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for primary care, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services would be viewed favorably. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue and mobility issues.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. Are there mental health clinics or counseling services in Murfreesboro? Do primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have strong referral networks? The integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan is vital for supporting patients' well-being.

Furthermore, access to specialized cancer care is essential. While Murfreesboro may not have a major cancer center, the proximity to larger cities with comprehensive cancer treatment facilities is important. Are there clear referral pathways to these centers? Do local PCPs have strong relationships with oncologists and other specialists? The ability to quickly connect patients with the appropriate level of care is a key indicator of the healthcare system's effectiveness.

The analysis also considers the availability of support services. Does the community offer support groups for lung cancer patients and their families? Are there resources for financial assistance, such as programs to help with the cost of medications and treatment? The presence of these support services can significantly improve patients' quality of life and help them navigate the challenges of cancer treatment.

Finally, the analysis considers the overall community health environment. Are there public health initiatives focused on reducing smoking rates and promoting healthy lifestyles? Does the community have access to clean air and water? These environmental factors can significantly impact lung cancer risk. The presence of a supportive community environment is an important factor in evaluating the overall healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare ecosystem in Murfreesboro (ZIP Code 27855) for lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. While a simple ranking is not feasible, a thorough evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized care paints a more complete picture. This detailed analysis would help identify strengths and weaknesses within the system and highlight areas for improvement.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Murfreesboro and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and access to specialized services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and informing decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.