31537, Folkston, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31537, Folkston, Georgia is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.15 percent of the residents in 31537 has some form of health insurance. 38.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.48 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 31537 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,791 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31537. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 184 health care providers accessible to residents in 31537, Folkston, Georgia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Folkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 31537)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Folkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 31537) requires a nuanced approach, particularly concerning breast cancer care. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources, ultimately formulating a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score will reflect the overall preparedness of the community to address the multifaceted needs of individuals facing breast cancer, from early detection to survivorship.

Folkston, a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. The primary care physician (PCP) availability is a critical starting point. A robust primary care infrastructure serves as the initial point of contact for patients, facilitating preventative screenings, early detection efforts, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in Folkston is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and increased travel times for appointments. This scarcity can significantly impact breast cancer outcomes.

Standout practices, even within a smaller community, can significantly impact the quality of care. These practices often exhibit advanced screening protocols, such as the utilization of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and offer patient navigation services. Patient navigators are invaluable resources, guiding patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The presence of such practices elevates the Breast Cancer Score by offering a higher standard of care. The availability of these resources, however, is likely limited in a rural setting.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to specialized care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists remotely, reducing the need for extensive travel. The Breast Cancer Score benefits from the presence of telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to support groups. The ability to remotely access expertise can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve outcomes.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly enhances the Breast Cancer Score. The availability of these resources, especially in a rural area, can be challenging.

Assessing the overall Breast Cancer Score for Folkston (ZIP Code 31537) requires a holistic evaluation. Considering the likely challenges of a rural setting, the score is likely to be negatively impacted by the physician-to-patient ratio, the limited presence of specialized practices, and the potential scarcity of mental health resources. Telemedicine adoption, while offering potential benefits, may also be limited by internet access and patient technological literacy. The Breast Cancer Score is therefore likely to be lower than in more urbanized areas.

The analysis must consider the potential for improvement. Initiatives to recruit and retain PCPs, expand telemedicine services, and integrate mental health resources into the existing healthcare infrastructure can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Community awareness campaigns promoting early detection and regular screenings are also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for creating a supportive and accessible healthcare environment.

The effectiveness of breast cancer care is not solely dependent on the availability of medical resources. Patient education and awareness are also critical factors. Educating the community about the importance of self-exams, mammograms, and other screening methods can lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes. Public health initiatives, such as mobile mammography units, can also play a vital role in increasing access to screening services, especially for underserved populations.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can further enhance the patient experience. These groups provide emotional support, information, and resources to individuals facing breast cancer. They can also advocate for improved access to care and advocate for policy changes that benefit patients. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The assessment of the Breast Cancer Score is dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and new technologies and treatment options are continually emerging. The score should be regularly updated to reflect these changes and to ensure that the community is receiving the best possible care. The score should also be used as a tool to identify areas for improvement and to guide the allocation of resources.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Folkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 31537) is likely to be impacted by the challenges inherent in a rural setting. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized practices, and the access to mental health resources are likely to be limiting factors. While telemedicine adoption offers potential benefits, the overall score may be lower than in more urbanized areas. However, the community can improve its score by focusing on recruiting and retaining PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, and promoting early detection and screening through public health initiatives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Folkston and other areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and data-driven visualizations that can help you understand the complexities of healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.