27916, Aydlett, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27916, Aydlett, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27916 has some form of health insurance. 48.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.71 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 27916 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 268 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27916. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,292 health care providers accessible to residents in 27916, Aydlett, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP Code 27916 (Aydlett, North Carolina) with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, acknowledging that a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” is a complex metric.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Aydlett and the surrounding areas is a crucial starting point. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available datasets, such as those maintained by the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Department of Health & Human Services. However, given the relatively rural nature of this region, it's reasonable to anticipate a lower physician density compared to more urban centers. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care for individuals at risk of lung cancer. It also puts a strain on existing primary care providers, potentially impacting the time they can dedicate to each patient.

Standout practices within the 27916 ZIP code, or those serving the area, are of paramount importance. Identifying these requires detailed research, including patient reviews, online presence, and participation in community health initiatives. A practice excelling in lung cancer prevention might actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer convenient access to low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, and demonstrate a commitment to educating patients about risk factors. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists or oncologists in the area, even if not directly within the ZIP code, would significantly enhance the care options available to patients.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in bridging geographical gaps and improving access to care. Practices embracing telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. These technologies are especially valuable for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent communication with their healthcare providers. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialist consultations, all of which are vital for lung cancer patients. The degree of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in Aydlett would directly influence the overall “Lung Cancer Score.”

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the well-being of lung cancer patients and their families. A cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event that can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or partnerships with external organizations, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, further enhances the mental and emotional support available to patients.

Specific examples of practices that excel in lung cancer care should be highlighted. A practice might have a dedicated lung cancer screening program, utilizing the latest technology and adhering to evidence-based guidelines. Another practice might have a strong partnership with a local hospital or cancer center, ensuring seamless referrals and access to advanced treatments. The availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, is another key indicator of a practice’s commitment to lung cancer prevention. The presence of a dedicated care coordinator to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system is also highly beneficial.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another consideration. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, ensuring continuity of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to track patient health data, monitor screening results, and coordinate treatment plans. The ability to access patient records electronically also streamlines communication between patients and their providers.

Accessibility to diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, is a crucial factor in early detection. The proximity of these tools to primary care practices is important. Patients need easy access to these screenings, especially those at high risk due to smoking history or other factors. Delays in obtaining diagnostic tests can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The cost of care is a significant barrier to accessing healthcare services. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by pharmaceutical companies or non-profit organizations, is crucial for patients who struggle to afford their medications and treatments. Practices that proactively inform patients about these resources demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care.

Community outreach and education are critical components of lung cancer prevention. Practices that actively participate in community events, offer educational workshops, and provide information about risk factors and screening guidelines are making a positive impact. The presence of these initiatives in Aydlett would positively influence the “Lung Cancer Score.”

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists, is also critical. While these specialists may not be located directly within the 27916 ZIP code, their proximity and accessibility are crucial. The ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to these specialists is a key factor in the overall quality of care.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for primary care availability in Aydlett would be a composite of these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the accessibility of diagnostic tools, the cost of care, and the community outreach efforts. It would also consider the proximity and accessibility of specialists.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Aydlett, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographical data and identifying areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare system. They can help to identify potential gaps in care and inform strategies for improving access to healthcare services.