27922, Cofield, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.78 percent of the residents in 27922 has some form of health insurance. 46.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.64 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 27922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 27922, Cofield, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27922 and Cofield, NC

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within ZIP code 27922, focusing particularly on primary care availability in the nearby town of Cofield, North Carolina. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, effective management, and patient support. This analysis does not assign a numerical score but rather provides a qualitative overview.

The foundation of any successful lung cancer strategy is robust primary care. Early detection hinges on proactive screening and prompt referrals. In Cofield, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, fostering a proactive approach to patient health.

Beyond sheer numbers, the scope of services offered by PCPs is vital. Do practices routinely offer or facilitate lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for eligible patients (those with a significant smoking history)? Are they well-versed in the latest guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? The integration of these services into routine care significantly impacts early detection rates.

Within ZIP code 27922, the availability of specialists is another crucial factor. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable driving distance is essential for timely and effective treatment. Travel time to these specialists directly impacts patient outcomes, particularly in the context of a potentially aggressive disease like lung cancer. The proximity of a hospital equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as advanced imaging and radiation therapy, is also a key consideration.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in this rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet connectivity, patient access to technology, and the willingness of both physicians and patients to embrace this modality. Practices demonstrating a commitment to telemedicine, particularly for follow-up care and patient education, would likely receive a higher score in this assessment.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that proactively integrate mental health services into their care models would be considered more comprehensive.

Standout practices within the area would likely demonstrate a commitment to several key areas. These include a high physician-to-patient ratio, a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, efficient referral pathways to specialists, a robust telemedicine program, and integrated mental health services. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as health fairs and educational seminars, to raise awareness about lung cancer prevention and early detection, would also be considered exemplary.

The quality of care also extends beyond the clinical setting. Patient education plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to take an active role in their health. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and accessible information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, screening options, and treatment pathways are more likely to foster positive patient outcomes. This includes providing resources in multiple formats (e.g., written materials, online videos) and languages, as needed.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" is not solely determined by the presence of resources but also by their accessibility and integration. Even if specialists are available, if wait times are excessively long, or if communication between primary care physicians and specialists is poor, the overall score would be negatively impacted. Conversely, a well-coordinated system of care, with clear communication pathways and a patient-centered approach, would significantly enhance the score.

Another crucial element is the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with access to evidence-based smoking cessation programs is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes offering counseling, medication, and support groups to help patients quit smoking and reduce their risk. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation and offer these services would be highly valued.

Furthermore, the consideration of insurance coverage is critical. Access to quality healthcare is often dependent on insurance coverage. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and actively assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, including insurance claims and financial assistance programs, are more likely to provide equitable access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27922 and Cofield requires a multifaceted evaluation. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, smoking cessation programs, patient education materials, insurance coverage, and the overall coordination of care. The presence of these elements, along with their accessibility and integration, determines the overall quality of care available to individuals in this area.

To gain a more granular understanding of healthcare resource distribution and accessibility within ZIP code 27922 and the surrounding areas, we recommend using the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, specialist availability, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, allowing for a detailed and insightful analysis of the healthcare landscape. Explore the CartoChrome maps to better visualize and understand the healthcare resources available to you and your community.