27943, Hatteras, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.33 percent of the residents in 27943 has some form of health insurance. 36.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.27 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 27943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33 health care providers accessible to residents in 27943, Hatteras, North Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27943 and Primary Care Availability in Hatteras**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning lung cancer care, necessitates a nuanced understanding of the resources available within a specific geographic area. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 27943, encompassing Hatteras, North Carolina, and evaluates the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial element in early detection and management of lung cancer. The analysis also considers the physician-to-patient ratio, adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources, all of which influence the overall quality of care and patient outcomes.

Hatteras, a geographically isolated community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The presence of a robust primary care network facilitates preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans, which are essential for early lung cancer detection. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care physicians can delay diagnosis, leading to poorer prognoses.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 27943 is vital. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This can result in delayed diagnoses and treatment, ultimately impacting patient survival. Conversely, a higher ratio, while not a guarantee of quality, generally indicates better access to care. The analysis will examine the current physician-to-patient ratio, comparing it to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care services.

The presence of standout primary care practices within the ZIP code is another important consideration. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings, and employ evidence-based practices are essential. The analysis will identify any practices that have a proven track record of early detection and successful patient outcomes. This may involve reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice performance data, and assessing the availability of specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can bridge the gap in healthcare access by providing remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. The analysis will examine the extent to which primary care practices in Hatteras have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows. The ability to offer telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care for patients in Hatteras, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent interactions with healthcare providers.

Mental health resources are also a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the ZIP code, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it allows for early identification and intervention for patients struggling with mental health issues.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. It is also influenced by the availability of support services. This includes access to diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans, and specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. The analysis will evaluate the availability of these services within a reasonable distance of Hatteras. The presence of a well-equipped diagnostic center and access to specialized medical professionals are essential for providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education and support programs. These programs can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment. This includes access to information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support groups. The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis will consider the accessibility of these services, including transportation options and insurance coverage. Transportation challenges can be particularly significant in geographically isolated areas. The availability of public transportation or patient transportation services can greatly improve access to care. Insurance coverage is another crucial factor. The analysis will consider the types of insurance accepted by local healthcare providers and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

The analysis will evaluate the overall level of coordination of care. Effective coordination of care involves seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. This can improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of medical errors. The analysis will assess the extent to which healthcare providers in Hatteras collaborate and share patient information.

The analysis will also consider the potential impact of future developments, such as population growth and changes in healthcare policy. The analysis will identify any potential challenges and opportunities that may arise in the future. This information can be used to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care in ZIP Code 27943 requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services will provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of healthcare access in Hatteras. The analysis will highlight areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable insights for improving patient outcomes and ensuring access to quality lung cancer care.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources and accessibility in ZIP Code 27943, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a detailed geographic overview of healthcare providers, facilities, and other relevant data points, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hatteras.