27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.93 percent of the residents in 27910 has some form of health insurance. 47.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.40 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 27910 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,483 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27910. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,191 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 518 health care providers accessible to residents in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ahoskie, NC (ZIP Code 27910)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Ahoskie, North Carolina, ZIP code 27910, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the cornerstone of early detection and referral, alongside the presence of resources crucial for patient well-being throughout the cancer journey. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health support, culminating in a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in robust primary care. Early detection, often through screening and prompt referral to specialists, significantly improves patient outcomes. In Ahoskie, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data, such as those from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, would provide the most accurate physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code. This data, combined with information on the number of practicing primary care physicians, is essential for gauging the accessibility of care.

Standout practices within the Ahoskie area are those that prioritize comprehensive care. These practices likely employ a multidisciplinary approach, integrating primary care with access to diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and CT scans, and streamlined referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. A practice that actively promotes lung cancer screening for eligible patients, particularly those with a smoking history, demonstrates a commitment to proactive care. Furthermore, practices that offer patient education resources and support groups enhance the overall patient experience. Identifying these practices requires examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and information available through local healthcare networks.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas like Ahoskie. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. This can include virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. A high degree of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices and specialist networks is a positive indicator. It suggests a commitment to patient convenience and potentially reduced travel burdens, which can be significant for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, contacting local clinics, and reviewing insurance coverage policies related to telehealth services.

Beyond medical treatment, mental health support is crucial for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can trigger a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a key component of a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score. Examining the presence of mental health professionals within the Ahoskie area, along with the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients, is essential. This includes assessing whether primary care practices have integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers.

Evaluating the Lung Cancer Score requires synthesizing these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for lung cancer care, characterized by a good physician-to-patient ratio, proactive primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would signal potential challenges, such as limited access to primary care, a lack of specialized services, and insufficient mental health support. This score is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the community's capacity to support patients through every stage of their cancer journey.

For instance, a practice that proactively screens for lung cancer, offers telemedicine consultations with specialists, and has strong partnerships with mental health providers would contribute significantly to a higher Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a practice with limited resources, long wait times, and a lack of mental health support would negatively impact the score. The score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare and the ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes.

The specific data points used to calculate the Lung Cancer Score would include the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of primary care practices offering lung cancer screening, the prevalence of telemedicine services, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance to patient care. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted heavily due to its impact on access to care. The presence of lung cancer screening programs would also receive a significant weight, reflecting the importance of early detection.

The analysis of the Lung Cancer Score also involves considering the socio-economic factors of the Ahoskie community. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation can influence a patient's ability to access care. These factors are incorporated into the overall assessment to provide a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Ahoskie, NC (27910) is a complex process that involves evaluating a range of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the proactive practices of local healthcare providers all contribute to the overall score. This score provides a valuable snapshot of the community's capacity to support lung cancer patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ahoskie and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the area's healthcare infrastructure.