27979, Sunbury, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27979, Sunbury, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.18 percent of the residents in 27979 has some form of health insurance. 37.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.09 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 27979 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 59 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27979. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 152 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 31 health care providers accessible to residents in 27979, Sunbury, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sunbury, NC (ZIP Code 27979)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment within ZIP code 27979, focusing specifically on primary care and its impact on early diagnosis. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering factors that contribute to a patient's overall well-being and chances of survival. This score is not a single numerical value but a holistic evaluation based on the elements described below.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Sunbury, North Carolina, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas regarding healthcare access. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 27979 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Census Bureau can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the area and the overall population. This data forms the foundation for understanding the accessibility of primary care, the first line of defense in lung cancer screening and early detection.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying and evaluating "standout" primary care practices is vital. This requires investigating practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening for eligible patients (typically those aged 50-80 with a significant smoking history). Key indicators of a strong practice include:

* **Adherence to Screening Guidelines:** Does the practice actively follow the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans?
* **Patient Education:** Does the practice provide comprehensive patient education about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the benefits of screening?
* **Smoking Cessation Support:** Does the practice offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs, a crucial component of lung cancer prevention?
* **Care Coordination:** Does the practice have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment?
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience within the practice.

Researching these aspects involves exploring practice websites, patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, and potentially contacting practices directly to inquire about their screening protocols and support services.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can hinder access to care. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in 27979 is crucial. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication refills, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can reduce travel time and costs, making healthcare more accessible for patients. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet connectivity in the area and the patient's comfort level with technology.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Addressing mental health needs is an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in the area is essential. This includes:

* **On-site Mental Health Services:** Does the primary care practice have a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed clinical social worker on staff?
* **Referral Networks:** Does the practice have established referral pathways to mental health professionals in the community?
* **Support Groups:** Are there local support groups for cancer patients and their families?
* **Integration of Mental Health into Care:** Does the practice screen patients for depression and anxiety, and address these issues as part of their overall care plan?

The integration of mental health services into primary care is crucial for supporting patients throughout their cancer journey.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer:**

Beyond the general factors mentioned above, several elements are particularly relevant to lung cancer:

* **Access to Pulmonologists:** The proximity and availability of pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) are crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
* **Access to Oncologists:** Similarly, the presence of oncologists (cancer specialists) is vital for providing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other cancer treatments.
* **Availability of Diagnostic Imaging:** The availability of LDCT scanners for lung cancer screening is paramount.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Is the local hospital accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC)? This indicates a commitment to high-quality cancer care.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

A comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for 27979 would integrate all these factors. It would reflect the accessibility of primary care, the quality of screening and prevention efforts, the availability of specialist care, the integration of mental health services, and the overall support system for patients.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources and their distribution within 27979 and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, hospital facilities, and other relevant healthcare data, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare access and availability. Visit CartoChrome today to visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.