31404, Savannah, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31404, Savannah, Georgia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.71 percent of the residents in 31404 has some form of health insurance. 42.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.46 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 31404 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,417 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31404. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,913 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,391 health care providers accessible to residents in 31404, Savannah, Georgia.

The analysis below provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians and resources within ZIP Code 31404, Savannah, Georgia, focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This score isn't a formal, standardized metric, but a qualitative evaluation based on available data and industry best practices. It considers various elements, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supportive services.

The foundation of a strong breast cancer care ecosystem rests on accessible primary care. In ZIP Code 31404, assessing primary care availability is crucial. Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are difficult to obtain due to constant fluctuations, the general trend in Savannah, and specifically within 31404, needs careful examination. Areas with a higher concentration of primary care physicians per capita generally offer better access to preventative screenings, early detection, and ongoing care. The availability of appointments, both for routine check-ups and for addressing specific breast health concerns, significantly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Delays can negatively affect outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are important. The presence of board-certified family medicine or internal medicine physicians is a positive sign. These physicians are often the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in breast cancer screening recommendations, education, and referrals. Furthermore, practices that emphasize preventative care, including regular mammograms and clinical breast exams, demonstrate a proactive approach to breast health. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, improve care coordination, and enable the tracking of patient history, including family history of breast cancer, which is a significant risk factor.

Standout practices within 31404 would likely exhibit several key features. They would prioritize patient education, providing clear and accessible information about breast cancer risks, screening guidelines, and self-examination techniques. They would have established referral pathways to qualified specialists, including radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment. Additionally, these practices would demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, fostering a supportive and empathetic environment. They'd actively listen to patients' concerns, address their questions thoroughly, and involve them in shared decision-making.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant. The ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face mobility challenges or live in areas with limited in-person resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. The availability of telehealth services can also help bridge geographical barriers and reduce the burden on patients who may need to travel long distances for care.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Primary care practices in 31404 should have readily available resources or established referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. These resources should be accessible and affordable, ensuring that patients receive the support they need to cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness. The ability to address mental health needs alongside physical health needs contributes to a more holistic and effective approach to patient care.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also beneficial. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for patients to connect with others who have similar experiences, share information, and receive emotional support. These groups can be particularly helpful for women undergoing treatment or navigating the challenges of survivorship. Primary care practices should be able to provide information about local support groups and online resources.

The Breast Cancer Score for 31404, based on the factors discussed, is a dynamic assessment. The score would be enhanced by a high physician-to-patient ratio, practices emphasizing preventative care, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. The score would be diminished by limited access to primary care physicians, practices lacking preventative care focus, a reluctance to adopt telemedicine, and a lack of readily available mental health support.

To gain a more granular understanding of primary care physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability within ZIP Code 31404, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed visualizations of geographical data, allowing you to analyze healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape.