27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.45 percent of the residents in 27022 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.52 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 27022 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 135 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27022. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 487 health care providers accessible to residents in 27022, Lawsonville, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lawsonville, NC (ZIP Code 27022)**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Lawsonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27022) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis goes beyond simply listing providers; it delves into the availability of care, the quality of resources, and the overall accessibility for patients within this rural community. We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, ultimately formulating a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

Lawsonville, like many rural areas, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The geographical isolation, coupled with potential socioeconomic factors, can significantly impact a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Therefore, understanding the local resources and their limitations is crucial.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

One of the primary indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) available to serve the population. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and increased stress for patients. In the context of breast cancer, timely access to a PCP is essential for early detection through regular screenings and referrals to specialists.

Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio in Lawsonville requires consulting publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments. This data would reveal the density of PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, who are critical to the breast cancer care continuum. Their proximity and the ease of access to their services are important factors.

The availability of primary care is inextricably linked to breast cancer outcomes. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. Adequate primary care availability is crucial for ensuring that women receive timely screenings, such as mammograms, and are referred to specialists when necessary. A shortage of PCPs can lead to missed opportunities for early detection and potentially worse outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the range of services offered, the quality of care provided, and patient satisfaction. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes would be considered top-tier.

These practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care between PCPs, radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists. They may also offer patient navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of such a navigator can significantly improve patient experience and reduce anxiety.

Furthermore, standout practices often embrace technological advancements, such as advanced imaging techniques (3D mammography) and minimally invasive surgical procedures. They may also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. These advancements can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in Lawsonville can significantly impact breast cancer care. Virtual consultations with specialists can reduce the need for travel, saving patients time and money.

Telemedicine can also be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. This can be especially beneficial for patients who experience side effects from treatment or require ongoing emotional support.

The level of telemedicine adoption among practices in Lawsonville should be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care delivery model. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to have a higher "Breast Cancer Score" due to their increased accessibility and convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support**

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral networks are better equipped to support patients' emotional well-being. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide a valuable source of peer support and reduce feelings of isolation.

The analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources in Lawsonville. This includes identifying the number of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care delivery model. Practices that prioritize mental health support are likely to have a higher "Breast Cancer Score" due to their commitment to holistic patient care.

**Formulating a Breast Cancer Score**

Based on the factors discussed above, a "Breast Cancer Score" can be formulated for Lawsonville. This score would be a composite measure, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would provide a snapshot of the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the area.

The score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It could be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide efforts to enhance breast cancer care in Lawsonville. It would also help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion**

The breast cancer care landscape in Lawsonville is a complex interplay of resources, challenges, and opportunities. By carefully analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, a comprehensive understanding of the situation can be achieved. This analysis provides a foundation for improving breast cancer care and ensuring that all patients in Lawsonville have access to the best possible care.

Explore the spatial relationships of healthcare resources in Lawsonville and beyond. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of physicians, specialists, and support services, allowing for a more informed understanding of healthcare access. Visit CartoChrome today to gain valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape.