27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.17 percent of the residents in 27978 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.99 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 27978 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 67 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27978. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 364 health care providers accessible to residents in 27978, Stumpy Point, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Stumpy Point, NC (ZIP Code 27978)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 27978, specifically focusing on primary care availability in Stumpy Point, requires a nuanced understanding of resource allocation, physician access, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will generate a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score," a composite metric reflecting the overall preparedness of the area to address lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The score will consider factors such as physician density, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Stumpy Point, a small community, likely experiences challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. National averages for primary care physicians (PCPs) often hover around 1:1,300. However, rural areas like Stumpy Point frequently face shortages. A lower ratio, perhaps closer to 1:2,000 or even higher, would indicate a significant access issue. This scarcity necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early detection and diagnosis, crucial for successful lung cancer treatment.

Specialist availability further complicates the picture. While PCPs are the gatekeepers, timely access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons is paramount. The nearest major medical centers with comprehensive cancer care are likely located in larger cities, potentially requiring significant travel for patients. This travel burden adds to the stress and financial strain already associated with a cancer diagnosis, impacting treatment adherence and overall quality of life. A low "Lung Cancer Score" would reflect the limited access to these specialists.

Standout practices, if any exist within or near ZIP code 27978, would significantly elevate the score. These practices could be recognized for several key attributes. First, a commitment to early detection through proactive screening programs, particularly for individuals at high risk due to smoking history or other factors, would be a major positive. Second, a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together various specialists to develop personalized treatment plans, is essential. Third, a strong patient support system, including navigators, social workers, and support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience. The absence of these elements would depress the score.

Telemedicine adoption offers a potential solution to the geographical challenges. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, review imaging results remotely, and provide remote monitoring of patients can greatly improve access to care. The "Lung Cancer Score" would be positively influenced by practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. However, the availability of reliable internet access in Stumpy Point is a crucial factor. Limited connectivity would hinder telemedicine adoption and negatively impact the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can trigger anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients and their families. The "Lung Cancer Score" would be boosted by practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or through referrals to accessible mental health specialists. The absence of these resources would further diminish the score.

The analysis would consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Access to information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. Practices that provide educational materials, host support groups, and connect patients with relevant organizations would contribute positively to the score. Conversely, a lack of readily available information would negatively impact the score.

The hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27978 would be a complex calculation. It would weigh the factors discussed above, giving greater emphasis to those with the most significant impact on patient outcomes. A low score would highlight the challenges faced by residents of Stumpy Point in accessing adequate lung cancer care, emphasizing the need for improvements in physician recruitment, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. A high score would indicate a more robust and patient-centered approach to care.

The score would also consider the presence of community resources. Access to smoking cessation programs, support groups, and other community-based initiatives can play a vital role in prevention and support. The presence of these resources would positively influence the score, while their absence would negatively impact it.

The analysis would also consider the quality of the healthcare facilities. The presence of modern diagnostic equipment, such as advanced imaging technology, and the availability of specialized treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, would significantly impact the score. The absence of these resources would negatively affect the score.

Furthermore, the score would consider the level of patient satisfaction. Patient feedback, through surveys and other means, provides valuable insights into the quality of care. Practices with high patient satisfaction scores would contribute positively to the overall score. Conversely, practices with low satisfaction scores would negatively impact the score.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27978, with a specific focus on primary care availability in Stumpy Point, would likely reflect the challenges of providing comprehensive cancer care in a rural setting. The score would highlight the importance of addressing physician shortages, improving specialist access, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services. The overall goal would be to provide the best possible care for patients facing this challenging disease.

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