27920, Buxton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.24 percent of the residents in 27920 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.79 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 27920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 333 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21 health care providers accessible to residents in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Buxton, NC (ZIP Code 27920)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment within ZIP code 27920, specifically focusing on Buxton, North Carolina. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and other factors impacting the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for residents. This score is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a holistic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address lung cancer concerns.

Buxton, a small coastal community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. Its relative isolation and limited population density influence the availability of medical professionals and specialized services. The primary care physician (PCP) landscape is the foundation of this analysis. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Data from various sources (e.g., the North Carolina Medical Board, the U.S. Census Bureau) will be cross-referenced to estimate this ratio within the 27920 ZIP code. The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or similar safety-net provider would positively influence the score, indicating a commitment to serving underserved populations.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality and accessibility of these practices are paramount. Factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and patient reviews contribute to the overall score. Practices with readily available appointment slots, accepting a wide range of insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid), and boasting positive patient feedback will receive higher marks. We will examine online platforms (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals) and local community resources to gather this information. The presence of practices actively participating in preventative care initiatives, such as promoting lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers), will be considered a significant positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in mitigating the challenges of geographical isolation. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, receive remote monitoring, and access specialist expertise via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine for primary care appointments, follow-up visits, and even specialist consultations will be viewed favorably. The availability of telehealth options for lung cancer screening discussions, smoking cessation programs, and post-treatment support will further enhance the score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within the community or through readily accessible referral networks is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or established partnerships, will receive a higher score. This includes access to counseling, support groups, and resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with cancer.

Standout practices will be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care, preventative screening, and integration of technology. These practices will be those demonstrating excellence in several key areas: a high physician-to-patient ratio, minimal wait times, a commitment to telemedicine, strong patient reviews, and a robust approach to mental health support. They will also be those actively participating in community outreach programs and promoting preventative care initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screenings.

The analysis will consider the availability of specialized care, even if not directly within the 27920 ZIP code. Proximity to hospitals and cancer centers capable of providing advanced diagnostic and treatment services (e.g., CT scans, radiation therapy, chemotherapy) is crucial. The ease of access to these facilities, considering travel time and transportation options, will impact the overall score. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer screening program at a nearby hospital or clinic will be viewed as a significant positive factor.

The assessment will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Programs offering counseling, medication, and support groups are vital for preventing lung cancer and improving outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease. Practices actively promoting and participating in these programs will receive a higher score. This includes access to nicotine replacement therapy, prescription medications, and behavioral therapy.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Buxton, NC (ZIP code 27920) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the proximity to specialized care, and the availability of smoking cessation programs all contribute to the overall assessment. While Buxton faces inherent challenges due to its geographical location, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers, innovative technology, and a commitment to patient-centered care can significantly improve the score and, most importantly, the health outcomes of its residents.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buxton and surrounding areas, including the location of practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare services and their accessibility.