27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 27878 has some form of health insurance. 64.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.23 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 27878 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27878. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,435 health care providers accessible to residents in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sharpsburg, NC (ZIP Code 27878)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly regarding lung cancer care, in Sharpsburg, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27878), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the critical factors influencing a patient's access to and quality of care, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of supportive mental health resources. The goal is to create a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of any robust healthcare system is the availability of qualified physicians. In Sharpsburg, the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically regarding primary care physicians (PCPs), is a crucial metric. A low ratio can indicate limited access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Researching the current ratio, comparing it to state and national averages, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide this information. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is even more critical for lung cancer patients. The proximity of these specialists to Sharpsburg is another factor. Are they located in nearby cities like Rocky Mount or Wilson? Travel time and ease of access to these specialists significantly impact patient outcomes.

Evaluating individual practices within and around Sharpsburg is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves assessing several key characteristics. Does the practice accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? This is a critical factor for many residents. The practice's patient satisfaction scores, often available through online review platforms and patient surveys, provide valuable insights into the quality of patient-physician interactions and overall care experience. Does the practice have a dedicated team of nurses, medical assistants, and support staff? The team's composition and expertise contribute significantly to the patient experience. Does the practice have a strong focus on preventive care, including lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals? This proactive approach is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates.

The integration of technology is transforming healthcare delivery, and its adoption in Sharpsburg's medical practices is a key factor. Telemedicine capabilities are particularly relevant, especially for patients in rural areas. Does the practice offer virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate follow-up appointments. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial aspect. EHRs streamline information sharing between providers, enabling better coordination of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. Does the practice use EHRs, and are they integrated with other healthcare systems in the region?

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive care plan. Does the local healthcare system offer access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists? Are these services readily accessible, affordable, and integrated into the overall care plan? Does the practice have established referral pathways to mental health services? The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

Assessing the overall "Lung Cancer Score" involves weighting these factors and assigning scores based on their importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and specialist availability might receive a higher weighting than telemedicine adoption. The specific weighting would depend on the individual's priorities and values. The final score would represent a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg, providing a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Specific examples of practices in the area would be researched. Are there any practices that stand out for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventive care, or their innovative use of technology? Are there any practices that are particularly well-regarded by patients? The analysis would identify these standout practices and highlight their strengths.

The analysis would also examine the challenges facing the healthcare system in Sharpsburg. Are there any shortages of healthcare professionals? Are there any disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status or geographic location? The analysis would identify these challenges and propose potential solutions.

This analysis is not a static document; it's a living assessment. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and regulations emerging regularly. The "Lung Cancer Score" should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure its continued relevance.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" should be presented in a clear and concise format, providing an easy-to-understand overview of the healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg. This could include a summary of the key findings, a breakdown of the scores for each factor, and a list of recommendations for improvement.

The information gathered from this analysis, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, can be visualized and analyzed using geographic information systems (GIS). CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for visualizing healthcare data, identifying patterns, and highlighting areas with limited access to care.

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