27982, Waves, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27982, Waves, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27982 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 27982 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27982. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27982, Waves, North Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27982 & Primary Care in Waves

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 27982, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management. The scope extends to examining physician-to-patient ratios, highlighting standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the presence of mental health resources, all factors contributing to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the region. The analysis also considers the impact of these elements on the broader community, particularly in the context of Waves.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection, through regular screenings and prompt attention to symptoms, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, a robust primary care infrastructure is paramount. In ZIP Code 27982, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall physician-to-patient ratio are critical metrics. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates greater access to care, allowing PCPs to spend more time with each patient, fostering better patient-physician relationships, and enabling more thorough examinations. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to rushed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and a less proactive approach to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings.

The availability of primary care in Waves, a community within or near ZIP Code 27982, further shapes the overall score. Rural areas often face challenges in healthcare access, including physician shortages and limited specialist availability. Analyzing the proximity of primary care facilities to Waves residents, the ease of appointment scheduling, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are essential components of this assessment. A community with limited access to PCPs will inherently receive a lower score, reflecting the increased barriers to early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. These practices often demonstrate exemplary patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to community health. Factors to consider include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate care coordination, and the availability of patient education materials. Practices that proactively reach out to at-risk patients, such as smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer, and encourage screening will receive higher marks. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated care coordinators who assist patients through the diagnostic and treatment process is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor influencing the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education will receive higher scores. Telemedicine can also facilitate consultations with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The ease of use of telemedicine platforms and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, will receive higher scores. Access to mental health services can improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and support patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

The analysis must also consider the specific demographics of the population served by the primary care practices in 27982 and Waves. The prevalence of smoking, the age distribution of the population, and the socioeconomic factors influencing access to care are all relevant. Practices serving populations with a higher prevalence of smoking, for example, should be commended for their efforts in smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening initiatives. Similarly, practices that address the social determinants of health, such as transportation barriers or financial constraints, will contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is a multifaceted assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the region. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic evaluation that can change based on improvements in healthcare infrastructure, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the commitment of healthcare providers to providing patient-centered care. Regular monitoring and analysis of these factors are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of ZIP Code 27982 and Waves have access to the best possible care.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a more in-depth investigation. To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27982 and Waves, and to visualize the distribution of resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, we encourage you to explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care within the region.