27872, Roxobel, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.69 percent of the residents in 27872 has some form of health insurance. 58.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.55 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 27872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 42 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27872. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 545 health care providers accessible to residents in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27872 and Primary Care in Roxobel**

Analyzing the quality of lung cancer care within ZIP code 27872, encompassing the town of Roxobel, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The ultimate goal is to understand the landscape of care and identify areas for improvement, ultimately benefiting patients in their fight against this disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. Roxobel, a small community, presents a unique challenge. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the area, considering the population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, must also be factored into the equation.

Beyond simple numbers, the type of primary care offered is critical. Do the available PCPs offer comprehensive services, including smoking cessation programs, which are vital in preventing lung cancer? Do they actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhering to guidelines that recommend screening for high-risk individuals? This proactive approach is essential in catching the disease at an early, more treatable stage.

The presence of specialized medical practices within or near 27872 significantly impacts the quality of lung cancer care. Oncology practices, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons are key players in diagnosis, treatment, and management. Proximity to these specialists is crucial. Long travel distances to access these specialists can create barriers to care, leading to stress and delays in treatment. The reputation and expertise of these specialists are also important. Do they have experience in treating lung cancer? Are they affiliated with reputable hospitals or cancer centers?

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be used for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients' conditions. The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are a crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing emotional support and helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of the disease. Are there mental health professionals available in the area? Do they have experience working with cancer patients?

Assessing the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is also vital. These groups offer a sense of community and provide valuable information and support to patients and their families. They can also advocate for improved access to care and resources.

The identification of "standout practices" involves looking for healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. This could include practices that have a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists working together to provide comprehensive care. It could also include practices that are actively involved in research or clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest treatment options. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education and communication, ensuring patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis, are also considered standout.

Analyzing the data to create a “Lung Cancer Score” for 27872 involves assigning weighted values to each of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant factor, with a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) receiving a higher score. The presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the existence of support groups would also contribute to the score. The score would provide a numerical representation of the overall quality of lung cancer care available in the area.

The analysis of primary care availability in Roxobel is crucial. The score would reflect the number of PCPs, the services they offer (e.g., smoking cessation), and their participation in screening programs. A strong primary care foundation is essential for early detection and prevention, significantly impacting the overall lung cancer score.

The evaluation of telemedicine adoption includes assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have fully embraced telemedicine and offer a wide range of services would receive a higher score.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the overall score. The analysis would include the number of mental health professionals in the area, their experience in treating cancer patients, and the availability of support groups.

The final “Lung Cancer Score” for 27872 would be a composite score reflecting the weighted values of all these factors. This score would provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the current state of lung cancer care in the area. It would also highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to specialists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health resources.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the community's commitment to providing quality care for those battling lung cancer. It serves as a starting point for improving the healthcare landscape, leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life for patients. The score can be used to inform decisions about healthcare resource allocation, promote collaboration among healthcare providers, and encourage the development of innovative solutions to improve access to care.

To fully visualize the landscape of healthcare providers, their locations, and the resources available in the 27872 ZIP code, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform to explore geographic data, visualize healthcare resources, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.