27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.59 percent of the residents in 27874 has some form of health insurance. 51.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.94 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 27874 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27874. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 291 health care providers accessible to residents in 27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Scotland Neck, NC (ZIP Code 27874)

Analyzing healthcare access and resources in Scotland Neck, North Carolina (ZIP code 27874) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "Lung Cancer Score," considers factors critical for early detection, treatment, and supportive care for individuals facing this serious illness. The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care to potential lung cancer patients.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is significantly more effective when patients have established relationships with primary care physicians (PCPs). In Scotland Neck, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant sources is essential to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs per capita, is a positive indicator. Conversely, a low ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening for high-risk individuals. Evaluating the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is crucial. Practices that actively implement these guidelines, educating patients about risk factors and offering appropriate screening, deserve higher marks. This includes assessing the availability of smoking cessation programs, which are vital for both prevention and supporting patients diagnosed with lung cancer.

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Scotland Neck. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices can significantly enhance patient access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. Evaluating the availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing between providers is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes by reducing travel burdens, expediting specialist referrals, and facilitating timely communication.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the treatment journey that follows, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources, such as counselors, therapists, and support groups, within Scotland Neck is vital. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families is also a positive indicator, offering a safe space for sharing experiences and coping with the emotional challenges of the disease.

Analyzing the availability of these resources involves a review of local healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department is a significant advantage. The hospital's capabilities, including access to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services, are important considerations. Partnerships between primary care practices and specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, are also beneficial, facilitating seamless transitions of care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Scotland Neck would be a composite assessment, weighing the various factors discussed. A high score would reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, proactive screening practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as limited access to primary care, inconsistent screening practices, or a lack of mental health resources. The score would not be a static number but a dynamic reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape in the area.

To further enrich the analysis, one could consider factors like socioeconomic status, insurance coverage rates, and the prevalence of smoking in the community. These factors can influence an individual's risk of developing lung cancer and their ability to access care. Data on these factors can be obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and other relevant sources. Integrating this data into the analysis provides a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Scotland Neck.

Furthermore, evaluating the quality of communication and coordination among healthcare providers is important. Effective communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals is essential for ensuring coordinated and patient-centered care. This includes the use of EHRs that facilitate information sharing, as well as the implementation of care coordination programs that help patients navigate the healthcare system.

The final assessment would be a detailed narrative, not just a number. It would highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing actionable recommendations for improvement. This could include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, expanding mental health services, and implementing evidence-based screening programs. The ultimate goal is to improve the early detection, treatment, and supportive care for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer in Scotland Neck.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Scotland Neck, and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, offering a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare access and identifying areas that may benefit from additional resources. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a more complete picture of healthcare in your community.