27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.33 percent of the residents in 27974 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.41 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 27974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27974. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 193 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 360 health care providers accessible to residents in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27974 & Shiloh Primary Care

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27974, focusing on primary care availability in the Shiloh area, and evaluating factors relevant to lung cancer care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement. This assessment is based on publicly available data and general industry benchmarks, acknowledging that specific practices and resources may evolve.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk due to smoking history or other factors. The availability of PCPs, therefore, is a critical determinant of the overall quality of lung cancer care within a community.

Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios is a primary step. National averages provide a baseline for comparison. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. ZIP code 27974, encompassing Shiloh and surrounding areas, requires a specific assessment of its physician density. Data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical boards can be used to calculate the number of PCPs practicing within the zip code and compare it to the population. This ratio, when compared to state and national averages, provides a preliminary indication of the accessibility of primary care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the area is important. Are physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas? Examining the geographic distribution of practices, including their proximity to public transportation and underserved populations, is essential. Factors such as the age and experience of the physicians in the area also influence the quality of care. Experienced physicians may have a deeper understanding of complex medical conditions, including lung cancer.

Standout practices within the 27974 ZIP code warrant specific attention. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs, is crucial. These programs often involve low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote and implement these screenings are likely to be at the forefront of early detection efforts. Investigating the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray and laboratory testing, can also streamline the patient experience and improve access to timely diagnosis.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services within primary care practices in the 27974 area provides insight into the accessibility of care. Practices that embrace telemedicine often demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the associated treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of these resources, including the presence of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices or partnerships with local mental health providers, provides a more complete picture of the care landscape.

The quality of care extends beyond the services offered. Patient satisfaction surveys and reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Examining these sources can reveal information about wait times, communication with physicians, and the overall quality of care. Practices with consistently positive reviews and high patient satisfaction scores are likely to be providing a superior level of care.

Furthermore, the integration of care coordination services can significantly improve patient outcomes. Care coordinators help patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and manage their medications. Assessing the availability of these services within primary care practices provides insight into the level of support available to patients.

The presence of specialist referrals is also a crucial consideration. Primary care physicians often refer patients to specialists for further diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists within a reasonable distance is important for ensuring that patients have access to the specialized care they need. Examining the referral patterns of primary care practices can provide insight into the ease of access to specialist care.

Finally, the overall community health infrastructure plays a role. The presence of local hospitals, cancer centers, and support groups contributes to the overall quality of lung cancer care. Assessing the resources available within the broader community, including access to transportation and financial assistance programs, provides a more holistic view of the support available to patients.

This analysis of the 27974 ZIP code, with a focus on primary care availability in Shiloh, reveals a complex healthcare landscape. While specific data points are needed to provide a definitive ranking, the factors discussed provide a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. Identifying areas for improvement, such as increasing physician density, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources, is crucial for enhancing the quality of lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP code 27974, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, providing a valuable perspective on the accessibility of care.