27041, Pilot Mountain, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27041, Pilot Mountain, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.88 percent of the residents in 27041 has some form of health insurance. 37.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.35 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 27041 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,725 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27041. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,579 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,088 health care providers accessible to residents in 27041, Pilot Mountain, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pilot Mountain, NC (ZIP Code 27041)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare services within Pilot Mountain, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27041), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the broader healthcare landscape relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and support. The goal is to provide a nuanced “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This score, while not a definitive grading, aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals concerned about breast cancer.

Pilot Mountain, a small town in Surry County, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. Rural communities often grapple with physician shortages, limited specialist availability, and transportation barriers. These factors directly impact the ability of individuals to receive timely screenings, follow-up care, and comprehensive support throughout their breast cancer journey.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of any breast cancer care plan begins with accessible primary care. PCPs are crucial for preventative screenings, early detection through mammogram referrals, and coordinating care with specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Pilot Mountain is a critical starting point. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can provide an estimated ratio. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care available matters. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, or a combination? The presence of both can offer greater flexibility in patient choice and care preferences. Examining the acceptance of new patients by local practices is also essential. Practices with open appointment slots and readily available new patient intake processes contribute to a more accessible healthcare environment.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying standout practices involves more than just counting physicians. It requires assessing the quality of care delivered. This can be done by looking at patient reviews, online ratings, and accreditations. Practices that are patient-centered, actively promote preventative care, and offer convenient appointment scheduling (including evening or weekend hours) often receive higher marks.

Furthermore, practices demonstrating a commitment to breast cancer awareness and early detection are particularly valuable. This includes actively reminding patients about mammogram screenings, providing educational materials, and participating in community outreach programs. The presence of on-site mammography services, while not always feasible in smaller towns, can significantly improve convenience and adherence to screening guidelines.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to some of the access challenges faced by rural communities. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care via video calls, and access educational resources online can be transformative. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide ongoing support and connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. The availability of virtual consultations for discussing screening results, managing side effects, and providing mental health support are all critical benefits.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems:**

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology.

Evaluating the presence of mental health providers within Pilot Mountain and the surrounding areas is essential. Are there mental health professionals who collaborate with local primary care practices? Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? The ability to seamlessly integrate mental health services into a patient's care plan significantly enhances the overall quality of life and treatment outcomes. The availability of these resources directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 27041:**

Given the rural nature of Pilot Mountain, transportation is a significant factor. The availability of transportation assistance programs for patients needing to travel to appointments is a critical consideration. Similarly, the presence of community health initiatives focused on breast cancer awareness and early detection can positively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

Developing a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for Pilot Mountain requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of care provided by local practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The final score should reflect a holistic view of the healthcare ecosystem, considering not just the quantity of services but also their accessibility, quality, and integration.

The assessment should also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and transportation assistance. A higher score indicates a more robust and supportive environment for individuals concerned about breast cancer.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Pilot Mountain, NC, is crucial for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. While this analysis provides insights, it is essential to conduct your own thorough research and consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about your health.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pilot Mountain and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare journey.