27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.50 percent of the residents in 27957 has some form of health insurance. 45.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.41 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 27957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 385 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 727 health care providers accessible to residents in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27957 and Merry Hill, NC

This analysis focuses on evaluating the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 27957, encompassing the town of Merry Hill, North Carolina, with a specific emphasis on factors pertinent to lung cancer care. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of primary care availability, physician resources, and supporting services, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single, definitive number, but rather a composite of various indicators, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare environment for individuals potentially facing or at risk of lung cancer within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Merry Hill, a rural community, presents unique challenges in this regard. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals to specialists. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is often proprietary, publicly available sources and healthcare databases provide estimates. In rural areas, this ratio often lags behind urban centers. A lower ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This situation necessitates a careful consideration of the availability of primary care within and surrounding Merry Hill.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through online platforms, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including proactive screening for lung cancer risk factors (smoking history, age, family history), should be prioritized. Furthermore, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and actively participate in regional healthcare networks often demonstrate a higher level of coordination and efficiency, facilitating smoother referrals and information sharing.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance healthcare access in rural communities like Merry Hill. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. The availability of telemedicine services for primary care consultations, specialist referrals, and even mental health support is a crucial component of our "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and improving patient convenience.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore an essential element of comprehensive care. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is critical for providing support to patients and their families. The availability of these resources within ZIP Code 27957, or within a reasonable travel distance, significantly impacts the overall quality of care. This includes assessing the availability of mental health services specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling, and access to palliative care services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 27957 will reflect a composite assessment, considering the factors discussed. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment, characterized by a strong physician-to-patient ratio, readily accessible primary care, proactive preventative care, telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care, highlighting areas for improvement.

Assessing the specific practices within Merry Hill requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Factors to consider include: the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the types of insurance accepted, the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments, and the integration of care coordination services. Practices that actively collaborate with specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists, will be viewed favorably. The existence of formal referral pathways and the use of shared electronic health records facilitate streamlined care.

The analysis extends beyond the immediate confines of Merry Hill. Access to specialized care, such as pulmonology and oncology, is crucial. Evaluating the proximity of specialist providers, the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), and the presence of accredited cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance are essential. Transportation options for patients needing to travel for appointments or treatments must also be considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not static. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices opening, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services are all subject to change. This necessitates continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare environment within ZIP Code 27957, specifically in relation to lung cancer care. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this assessment can inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions and advocate for improved access to care.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Merry Hill and the surrounding area, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing geographical data, allowing you to explore the healthcare resources in detail and gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and opportunities within this community.