27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Belews Creek (ZIP Code 27009)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 27009), necessitates a comprehensive examination of several key factors. This analysis will focus on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to facilitate early detection and referrals, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to assess the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the community, recognizing that this score is a complex metric reflecting the interconnectedness of various healthcare components.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Belews Creek, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical element. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed access to care, including crucial screenings like mammograms. Assessing the availability of appointments, the average wait times to see a PCP, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are all vital components of this evaluation. Furthermore, the ability of PCPs to provide preventative care, educate patients about risk factors, and conduct thorough breast examinations significantly impacts the early detection rate.

Beyond simple accessibility, the quality of primary care in this area is crucial. Are PCPs knowledgeable about the latest breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they proactively discuss risk factors with their patients, such as family history, lifestyle choices, and age? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication and referral processes is another key indicator of quality. A well-integrated EHR system allows PCPs to efficiently share patient information with specialists, ensuring continuity of care.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care within or near Belews Creek is another critical factor. This includes the presence of radiologists who perform and interpret mammograms, surgeons specializing in breast cancer treatment, oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other cancer therapies, and radiation oncologists. The geographic proximity of these specialists is essential. Patients in rural areas may face significant travel burdens to access specialized care, which can negatively impact treatment outcomes.

Within the specialized care arena, the reputation and experience of individual practices matter. Some practices might stand out for their advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage cancers. The success rates of these practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of support groups and patient navigators are also important considerations. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively, often provide more comprehensive and effective care.

Telemedicine adoption is another important element. The use of telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and offer educational resources. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can significantly improve the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Belews Creek.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential. The integration of mental health services within the cancer care pathway, such as offering counseling during treatment and support groups for patients and their families, can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

Specific practices within the area need to be assessed. While a comprehensive list is impossible without direct access to healthcare data, it is possible to identify key providers. This involves researching local hospitals, clinics, and physician groups. Evaluating their services, technologies, and patient reviews provides valuable insights. Identifying practices that are known for their expertise in breast cancer care, their commitment to patient-centered care, and their integration of mental health resources is essential.

The assessment of the "Breast Cancer Score" for Belews Creek also requires considering the demographics of the population. Factors such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence breast cancer risk and access to care. Understanding the specific needs of the community is crucial for developing effective interventions and improving outcomes. This includes addressing health disparities and ensuring that all residents have equal access to quality care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for Belews Creek (ZIP code 27009) is a multifaceted undertaking. It requires a thorough evaluation of primary care availability and quality, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The physician-to-patient ratio, the reputation of individual practices, and the demographic characteristics of the population all contribute to the overall score. A higher score indicates better access to care, improved screening rates, and a more supportive environment for patients.

This analysis highlights the complexity of evaluating healthcare access and quality. While this overview provides a framework, a more detailed and data-driven assessment is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the "Breast Cancer Score" in Belews Creek. To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, the location of specialists, and the demographics of the area, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights and help identify areas where improvements are needed.