31565, Waverly, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31565, Waverly, Georgia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 31565 has some form of health insurance. 37.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.36 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 31565 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 484 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31565. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 539 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,905 health care providers accessible to residents in 31565, Waverly, Georgia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Waverly, Georgia (ZIP Code 31565)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within the Waverly, Georgia (ZIP Code 31565) area, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing this critical health concern. This score is not a single numerical value but a holistic evaluation based on the factors detailed below.

**Primary Care Availability in Waverly:**

The foundation of good breast cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. In Waverly, assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data must be compared to the population size to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early diagnosis. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Further analysis involves evaluating the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, multi-specialty groups, or larger healthcare systems? The presence of diverse practice models can influence the breadth of services offered and the potential for integrated care, which is particularly important for breast cancer patients. Access to after-hours care, including weekend and evening appointments, also significantly impacts the overall availability of primary care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Impact:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Waverly, this ratio needs to be carefully analyzed, considering both the number of PCPs and the population demographics. A high physician-to-patient ratio, particularly in a rural area like Waverly, can present challenges. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. This delay could lead to later-stage diagnoses, impacting treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, within a reasonable travel distance is crucial. If the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is unfavorable, and access to specialists is limited, the overall breast cancer care score for Waverly would be negatively impacted.

**Standout Practices and Their Contribution:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, and have a strong track record of early detection would be considered high-performing.

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers, even within a larger healthcare system, can significantly improve the quality of care. These centers often have specialized teams, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff, all focused on breast cancer treatment and care. The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities would also be a positive indicator.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve breast cancer care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can enhance access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience.

Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows can offer virtual follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and educational resources. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing healthcare providers to track progress and address any concerns promptly. The availability of telehealth services can be a crucial factor in improving the overall breast cancer care score for Waverly.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The availability of mental health resources and support services is an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services.

Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. Access to mental health services is a critical factor in improving the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients and is a key component of a positive breast cancer care score.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the breast cancer care score for Waverly (ZIP Code 31565) would be determined by a comprehensive assessment of: primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in providing accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Waverly is vital for individuals navigating breast cancer. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility and quality of care available. To visualize this data and gain further insights into the healthcare resources in your area, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your health.