27864, Pinetops, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 27864 has some form of health insurance. 46.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.18 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 27864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 112 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27864. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina.

Lung cancer is a formidable adversary, and early detection and access to quality care are paramount in the fight against it. This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care in Pinetops, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27864), focusing on primary care physician availability and the overall quality of care available to residents. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in the successful management of lung cancer.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the bedrock of preventative care and early detection. In Pinetops, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio indicates a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios require real-time data, publicly available sources, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, can offer general estimates and trends. The analysis should consider the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, factoring in the population served. Furthermore, the analysis must include the accessibility of these physicians, considering factors like insurance acceptance, office hours, and appointment wait times. A significant shortage of PCPs would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The adoption of telemedicine services by local practices is a key indicator of a proactive approach to patient care. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who might not be readily available in Pinetops. The analysis should investigate the availability of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists), and the ease of access for patients. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine will score higher in the Lung Cancer Score, reflecting their commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can bring significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. The analysis should examine the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. It should also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices and cancer treatment centers. Practices that offer integrated mental health support, or that have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, will receive a higher score.

Standout practices within the Pinetops area deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care is a vital part of this analysis. These practices might exhibit characteristics such as: a high rate of early-stage lung cancer diagnoses, a multidisciplinary approach to treatment (involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists), patient-centered care, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. The analysis should include reviews of local practices, patient testimonials (where available and compliant with privacy regulations), and information about any specialized programs or services they offer. Practices that go above and beyond in providing comprehensive and compassionate care will be highlighted.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. The analysis should be updated regularly to account for changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score is designed to provide a comprehensive view of the lung cancer care environment in Pinetops, North Carolina, and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis should consider the presence of community resources that support lung cancer patients and their families. This includes support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance programs. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

The availability of screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is also a critical factor. The analysis should investigate the availability of LDCT screening in the Pinetops area, including the eligibility criteria and the accessibility of screening centers. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening will receive a higher score.

The analysis should consider the level of patient education and awareness regarding lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Practices that provide educational materials, host community events, and actively engage in patient education will be recognized for their efforts.

This analysis should emphasize the importance of collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers. A multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists, is essential for providing comprehensive and effective lung cancer care. The analysis should assess the level of collaboration and communication among these providers.

This assessment should incorporate data from reputable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the American Cancer Society (ACS). The data should be used to provide context and benchmarks for the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP Code 27864, and the primary care availability in Pinetops, is a complex assessment that requires a multifaceted approach. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the quality of lung cancer care available to residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pinetops, and to identify the locations of PCPs, specialists, and healthcare facilities, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to you and your loved ones.