27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.52 percent of the residents in 27964 has some form of health insurance. 19.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.95 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 27964 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 166 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27964. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Point Harbor, NC (ZIP Code 27964)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within Point Harbor, North Carolina (ZIP code 27964). The focus is on primary care, as it serves as the crucial entry point for initial screening and referral, with an emphasis on factors impacting lung cancer outcomes. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, culminating in a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Point Harbor, and the surrounding Dare County, is a critical metric. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau must be consulted to ascertain the exact ratio within the 27964 ZIP code. A low ratio, reflecting a scarcity of primary care physicians, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates better access. This ratio is more important than the absolute number of physicians, as the population size is the determining factor.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We need to identify standout practices within the area. These practices are characterized by several key attributes. First, a commitment to preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers) based on established guidelines (e.g., those from the US Preventive Services Task Force). Second, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient data management, care coordination, and communication with specialists. Third, practices should demonstrate a commitment to patient education regarding smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and the early signs and symptoms of lung cancer.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Point Harbor's primary care landscape is a crucial factor. The Lung Cancer Score will be positively influenced by practices offering telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote locations. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. The analysis will investigate which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services provided, and the ease of access for patients.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral component of the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis will assess the proximity of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) to Point Harbor residents. Furthermore, it will investigate whether primary care practices have established partnerships with mental health providers to facilitate referrals and provide integrated care. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, specifically tailored to lung cancer patients and their families, will also be considered. Access to these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of the disease.

The Lung Cancer Score will be calculated based on a weighted average of these factors. Physician-to-patient ratio will carry a significant weight, reflecting the importance of access to care. The quality of primary care, including screening practices, EHR integration, and patient education, will also be weighted heavily. Telemedicine adoption will contribute positively, while the availability of mental health resources will be a crucial factor, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Point Harbor concerning lung cancer care.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a numerical representation of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support. A lower score highlights areas needing improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, enhancing screening practices, expanding telemedicine services, and bolstering mental health resources. The score is intended to be a dynamic tool, encouraging continuous improvement in the provision of lung cancer care within Point Harbor.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a more in-depth investigation. Further research should include direct contact with primary care practices to gather detailed information about their services and practices. Patient surveys can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system. Collaboration with local healthcare providers and community organizations is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve lung cancer outcomes in Point Harbor.

The ultimate goal is to empower residents of Point Harbor with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals can proactively seek preventative care, access appropriate treatment, and receive the support they need to navigate the challenges of lung cancer.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Point Harbor, NC (ZIP code 27964) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful and interactive platform for mapping and analyzing geospatial data, offering a detailed view of healthcare accessibility within your community.