30248, Locust Grove, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 30248, Locust Grove, Georgia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.34 percent of the residents in 30248 has some form of health insurance. 21.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.91 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 30248 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,531 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 30248. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,139 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,198 health care providers accessible to residents in 30248, Locust Grove, Georgia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Locust Grove, Georgia (ZIP Code 30248)**

Locust Grove, Georgia, a community nestled in Henry County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer care. Analyzing the quality and availability of services requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the number of physicians. This analysis aims to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment for the area, considering the specific needs of patients and the resources available within ZIP code 30248.

The foundation of any healthcare system lies in its primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screenings, and referrals to specialists. In Locust Grove, assessing primary care availability is crucial. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This ratio needs to be compared against both state and national averages to determine if the community is adequately served. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the breadth of services offered by the PCPs are all key considerations.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality of these practices is essential. Are the practices equipped with the latest technology for screenings, such as digital mammography? Do they have established relationships with local specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists? The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate information sharing between providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of errors. Practices with robust EHR systems generally score higher in terms of quality.

Once a patient receives a breast cancer diagnosis, access to specialized care becomes paramount. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. The proximity of these specialists to Locust Grove is a key factor. While the ZIP code itself may not house all these specialists, their accessibility within a reasonable travel distance is vital. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, is also a positive indicator. These centers often provide access to clinical trials, advanced treatment options, and support services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in Locust Grove can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine consultations can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. Practices utilizing telemedicine technologies score higher in terms of patient convenience and access.

The mental and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of the “Breast Cancer Score.” This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The availability of these resources within the community or nearby is crucial. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate services score higher in this area. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support for patients and their families.

Standout practices within the Locust Grove area deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing innovative approaches to improve outcomes. They might have implemented patient navigation programs, helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. They might also be actively involved in community outreach and education, raising awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection. Identifying these standout practices is critical for patients seeking the best possible care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are not the only determinant of healthcare quality. The presence of a robust network of specialists, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health resources all play a significant role. A practice with a lower physician-to-patient ratio may still score lower if it lacks access to specialists or fails to address the mental health needs of its patients.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Locust Grove would be a composite score, reflecting the availability and quality of various healthcare services. The score would be based on a weighted average of several factors, including PCP-to-patient ratios, specialist accessibility, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and the presence of standout practices. It would be crucial to regularly update this score, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Locust Grove, Georgia, requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The availability of primary care physicians, the proximity of specialists, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The “Breast Cancer Score” is a valuable tool for patients seeking to understand the healthcare resources available in their community.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Locust Grove, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed, interactive maps that can help you visualize the availability of healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your care.