27863, Pikeville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.59 percent of the residents in 27863 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.29 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 27863 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,556 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27863. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pikeville, NC (ZIP Code 27863)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Pikeville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27863). The focus is on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical factors in navigating the complexities of lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Pikeville, a small town, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The rural setting often translates to lower physician density compared to urban areas. This impacts access to primary care physicians, the crucial first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms potentially indicative of lung cancer. Early detection is paramount in improving survival rates, making readily available primary care a significant factor.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 27863 is a key indicator. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be utilized to determine the approximate number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data will then be compared to the population of Pikeville to calculate the ratio. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, it is crucial to consider the proximity of specialists and hospitals in neighboring towns and cities, such as Goldsboro, which may supplement local resources.

Identifying standout practices within Pikeville is essential. These practices will be evaluated based on several criteria. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of advanced diagnostic tools, and the availability of comprehensive patient services. Factors like patient satisfaction scores, gleaned from online reviews and surveys, will also be considered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs, will receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It offers a means to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in Pikeville. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local primary care practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to offer more convenient and accessible care, potentially impacting early detection and treatment.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within Pikeville and its surrounding areas. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either directly or through referrals, will be viewed favorably.

The availability of lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers), is a critical factor. The analysis will assess whether local practices offer or facilitate access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for eligible individuals. The presence of such programs demonstrates a proactive approach to early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.

The integration of palliative care services, which focus on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, is also important. These services can provide symptom management, emotional support, and assistance with navigating the complexities of cancer treatment. The analysis will investigate the availability of palliative care resources, including specialized physicians, nurses, and social workers.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the proximity and accessibility of specialized cancer centers and hospitals in the region. While Pikeville may not have a dedicated cancer center, the availability of such facilities in nearby cities, such as Goldsboro or Raleigh, is crucial. Factors such as travel time, transportation options, and the availability of supportive services (e.g., patient navigators, financial assistance) will be considered.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare resources available in Pikeville. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with greater emphasis placed on factors directly impacting early detection, access to specialists, and comprehensive patient support.

The analysis will not only assess the current state of healthcare resources but also identify areas for improvement. This may include recommendations for increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing the integration of mental health services. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve the quality of lung cancer care in Pikeville.

The findings of this analysis will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This will allow for a more informed understanding of the healthcare landscape and facilitate efforts to improve access to high-quality care for individuals affected by lung cancer.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower residents of Pikeville with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system. The comprehensive analysis aims to identify areas where resources are lacking and to highlight opportunities for improvement.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pikeville, including the location of medical practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the data further using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you explore the healthcare resources in your area and make informed decisions about your health.