27876, Seaboard, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27876, Seaboard, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.00 percent of the residents in 27876 has some form of health insurance. 60.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.44 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 27876 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27876. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 351 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 474 health care providers accessible to residents in 27876, Seaboard, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27876 & Seaboard Primary Care

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP code 27876, focusing on primary care and its implications for lung cancer detection and treatment. Furthermore, it examines the specific context of primary care availability within the town of Seaboard, North Carolina, and its potential impact on patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, particularly regarding early lung cancer detection and comprehensive patient support.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests heavily on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Within ZIP code 27876, an assessment of physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant sources should be analyzed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code. This metric is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. The analysis must identify standout practices within 27876. This requires evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (particularly for high-risk individuals, such as smokers), and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools within the practice or through readily accessible referrals. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide comprehensive health education are likely to demonstrate a higher level of commitment to preventative care, which is crucial in the fight against lung cancer. Researching the electronic health record (EHR) systems used by these practices is also important. Interoperability, or the ability of systems to share information seamlessly, can improve care coordination, especially between primary care and specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Examining the extent to which practices in 27876 utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services offered through these platforms, is essential. Telemedicine can facilitate early symptom assessment, provide access to specialist consultations, and support ongoing management of chronic conditions, all of which are relevant to lung cancer care. Furthermore, the integration of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track vital signs or respiratory function, could enhance the ability of PCPs to monitor patients remotely and intervene proactively.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the 27876 area, and the degree to which PCPs are able to refer patients to these resources. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as through co-located therapists or integrated behavioral health programs, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Addressing the psychological and emotional challenges associated with lung cancer is essential for overall patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Focusing specifically on the primary care landscape in Seaboard, North Carolina, requires a more granular examination. Seaboard, a small town, may face unique challenges regarding healthcare access, potentially including a lower physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to specialized services. The analysis should investigate the number of primary care providers practicing within Seaboard, the types of services they offer, and the distance patients must travel to access specialist care. The presence of any community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Seaboard should be noted, as these facilities often play a crucial role in providing healthcare to underserved populations.

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the availability of transportation options for patients in Seaboard. Limited access to transportation can significantly hinder a patient's ability to attend appointments, access screenings, and receive treatment. The presence of public transportation options, or the availability of community-based transportation services, is a critical factor in ensuring healthcare access for all residents of Seaboard. Additionally, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact healthcare access in Seaboard, such as income levels and insurance coverage rates. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to afford healthcare services and adhere to treatment plans.

The analysis should also evaluate the referral pathways from primary care providers in Seaboard to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Efficient referral processes are essential for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The analysis should assess the average wait times for specialist appointments, the availability of specialists in the surrounding areas, and the degree to which primary care providers are able to effectively coordinate care with specialists. Clear communication and collaboration between primary care providers and specialists are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27876 and the specific context of primary care availability in Seaboard provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities related to lung cancer detection and treatment. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other relevant factors, a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system emerges. This information can be used to inform targeted interventions and improve healthcare access and quality for all residents.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling you to identify areas of need and track progress over time.