27896, Wilson, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27896, Wilson, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.34 percent of the residents in 27896 has some form of health insurance. 36.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.88 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 27896 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27896. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,120 health care providers accessible to residents in 27896, Wilson, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Wilson, NC (ZIP Code 27896)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 27896, focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients in Wilson, North Carolina. We aim to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" by evaluating various factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, hinges on a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP). In Wilson, the availability of PCPs is a critical component of our Lung Cancer Score. We must assess the physician-to-patient ratio within the 27896 ZIP code. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility, improving the chances of timely intervention. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be essential to determine this ratio accurately. This data will be used to calculate the score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We will identify standout practices in Wilson. This involves evaluating factors such as the practice's commitment to preventive care, including proactive lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients (e.g., current smokers and former smokers with a significant smoking history). Practices that actively educate patients about the risks of smoking and the benefits of early detection will receive a higher score. We will also consider the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines, which can streamline the initial diagnostic process. Additionally, the presence of certified smoking cessation programs within the practice will be a positive factor, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element in our analysis. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in lung cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and patient education. Practices that utilize telemedicine platforms can improve access to care for patients, especially those who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. This technology can also facilitate communication between patients and specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. The extent to which practices in Wilson have embraced telemedicine will be a key factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score. We will look for evidence of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and patient portals that allow for easy access to medical records and communication with healthcare providers.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a vital aspect of the overall Lung Cancer Score. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues during their cancer journey. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model will receive a higher score. This includes access to on-site therapists or counselors, referrals to mental health specialists, and educational resources for patients and their families. We will investigate whether practices offer support groups, provide information on coping strategies, and actively screen patients for mental health concerns.

The presence of specialized lung cancer care within Wilson is another important consideration. While primary care is the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the availability of these specialists in or near the 27896 ZIP code. This includes assessing the number of specialists, their experience, and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices will also be a factor, as it impacts the ease with which patients can access specialized care.

The quality of the local hospital system is also important. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is a significant asset. We will evaluate the hospital's accreditation, its track record in treating lung cancer patients, and its participation in clinical trials. The hospital's commitment to patient-centered care, including support services and patient education programs, will also be considered.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score will consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking, and effective smoking cessation programs are crucial for prevention and improving patient outcomes. We will evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs in Wilson, including those offered by healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies. The score will also consider the accessibility of these programs, their cost, and their success rates.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score will take into account the overall health literacy of the community. Patients who are well-informed about lung cancer, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection are more likely to seek timely care. We will assess the availability of educational materials and resources in Wilson, including those provided by healthcare providers, cancer organizations, and public health agencies. The score will also consider the community's access to health information, including online resources and educational programs.

This comprehensive analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilson, NC, specifically in the context of lung cancer care. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources, we aim to provide a valuable assessment of the community's preparedness to address this serious disease. The final Lung Cancer Score will be a reflection of the collective efforts of healthcare providers, hospitals, and community organizations to improve the lives of individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Wilson, NC, and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the map and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilson, NC.