27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.22 percent of the residents in 27965 has some form of health insurance. 62.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.28 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 27965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 27965, Poplar Branch, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on Poplar Branch, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27965), and the landscape of primary care physicians, specifically considering their preparedness to address the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis and patient care. This assessment goes beyond a simple count of doctors; it delves into the availability of resources, including telemedicine and mental health support, crucial for a comprehensive approach to this challenging disease. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local medical infrastructure.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational element of this evaluation. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians practicing within the 27965 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available data, such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services resources, can provide this information. This number is then compared to the estimated population of Poplar Branch. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can potentially strain resources and impact access to timely appointments and follow-up care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care. However, this is a simplified view. The age and health profiles of the population, the prevalence of chronic conditions, and the proximity to specialists all play significant roles.

Identifying standout practices requires examining factors beyond the raw number of doctors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and proactive patient management are particularly important in the context of lung cancer. This includes offering or facilitating regular lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, like low-dose CT scans, within the practice or through close partnerships with local hospitals is another key indicator. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education, staying abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment and care, also deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas like Poplar Branch. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring services without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring programs, and online patient portals. The ease of use of these technologies, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are all important considerations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine effectively can significantly improve patient access and convenience.

The provision of mental health resources is often overlooked but is absolutely essential in lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes having on-site therapists or counselors, establishing partnerships with mental health professionals in the community, and providing resources for patients to manage stress and cope with their diagnosis. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to navigate the challenges of treatment.

Beyond the individual practices, the overall healthcare ecosystem within the 27965 ZIP code needs evaluation. This includes the presence of local hospitals and specialty clinics. The proximity to oncology specialists, pulmonologists, and other healthcare professionals involved in lung cancer treatment is a crucial factor. The availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and community resources also contributes to the overall quality of care. The strength of the relationships between primary care physicians and these various healthcare providers can influence the ease with which patients can access the necessary services and support.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, is also important. Electronic health records (EHRs) are essential for managing patient information, coordinating care, and tracking patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve communication between providers, reduce medical errors, and provide patients with a more seamless healthcare experience. The interoperability of these systems, allowing for the sharing of patient data between different healthcare providers, is also a key consideration.

Further, the analysis must consider the socio-economic factors that may influence access to care. The cost of healthcare, the availability of health insurance, and the transportation options available to patients can all affect their ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer assistance to patients in need, such as financial counseling or transportation services, demonstrate a commitment to serving the entire community.

The assessment should also consider the practice's approach to patient education. Providing patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer, its prevention, and its treatment options is essential. Practices that offer educational materials, host workshops, or provide access to online resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. The ability to communicate effectively with patients, using language they understand, is also a crucial factor.

Finally, the analysis needs to consider the long-term sustainability of the healthcare infrastructure in Poplar Branch. The availability of qualified healthcare professionals, the financial stability of the practices, and the ongoing investment in technology and infrastructure are all important factors. Practices that are committed to long-term planning and development are more likely to provide consistent and high-quality care to their patients.

The assessment of lung cancer preparedness in Poplar Branch, NC (27965), reveals a complex picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability all contribute to the overall quality of care. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Poplar Branch and surrounding areas, including visual representations of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.