27889, Washington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27889, Washington, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.65 percent of the residents in 27889 has some form of health insurance. 43.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.65 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 27889 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27889. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,416 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 27889, Washington, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Washington, NC (ZIP Code 27889) & Primary Care Landscape**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Washington, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27889) and the broader primary care environment within Washington County, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health services, all crucial components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Accessibility**

A fundamental aspect of any healthcare assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Washington County, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate, it is important to consider the overall picture. Low ratios, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which can negatively impact lung cancer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests improved access, potentially leading to earlier detection and more effective treatment. The county's rural nature may influence the distribution of physicians, potentially creating disparities in access depending on location within the county.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another crucial factor. Patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer require prompt access to these specialists for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices and the efficiency of referral processes are essential elements of the care pathway. Delays in referrals can significantly impact patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of a well-coordinated healthcare system.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Within ZIP Code 27889 and the surrounding areas, certain primary care practices may stand out based on factors such as patient reviews, accreditation, and the implementation of innovative care models. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including lung cancer screening for eligible patients, are particularly valuable. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors, such as smoking history, and proactively recommend screenings.

Practices that offer comprehensive care, including on-site diagnostic services or strong partnerships with local hospitals, can streamline the patient experience. This can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, reducing the need for multiple appointments and facilitating communication between different healthcare providers. The integration of these practices into the larger healthcare ecosystem, including hospitals and specialist networks, is a key indicator of their effectiveness.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Washington County. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices can significantly improve patient access to care, reducing the need for travel and facilitating timely consultations. Telemedicine can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, all of which are essential components of lung cancer care.

The success of telemedicine hinges on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient and provider comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing workflows. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine often report improved patient satisfaction and reduced healthcare costs. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component of Care**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on patients' mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. Primary care practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services can significantly improve patient outcomes. This includes providing access to therapists, counselors, and support groups.

The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can help address the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. This can lead to earlier intervention and improved patient outcomes. Practices that prioritize mental health often have established referral pathways to mental health specialists and offer educational resources for patients and their families. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide patients with a valuable source of support and information.

**Specifics for Washington, NC (27889)**

While a precise, quantifiable "Lung Cancer Score" for individual physicians or practices is beyond the scope of this analysis without direct access to proprietary data, we can make general observations. The primary care landscape in 27889 and the surrounding area likely faces challenges common to rural settings. These may include: physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption.

To improve lung cancer outcomes, practices should focus on: enhancing physician-to-patient ratios; promoting lung cancer screening; integrating telemedicine; and providing access to mental health resources. Collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and local hospitals is vital.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in Washington County, NC, presents both opportunities and challenges for lung cancer care. Addressing physician-to-patient ratios, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources are crucial steps towards improving patient outcomes. A comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.

**Call to Action:**

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Washington County, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and help identify areas for improvement.