27048, Stoneville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27048, Stoneville, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 27048 has some form of health insurance. 39.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.12 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 27048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,625 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27048. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,535 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 142 health care providers accessible to residents in 27048, Stoneville, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning breast cancer, within Stoneville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27048) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will consider factors impacting patient access to care, including the density of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized oncology services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of a "Breast Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal metric, will represent a qualitative assessment of the overall healthcare landscape for breast cancer patients in the area.

The foundation of any good healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Stoneville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Determining the exact ratio requires data analysis, but the presence of a robust network of PCPs is fundamental to a high Breast Cancer Score. These physicians are often the first point of contact, performing initial screenings, referring patients for mammograms, and coordinating care with specialists.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality of their practices is paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have established relationships with local radiology centers for efficient mammogram scheduling? These are vital considerations. A practice with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including proactive breast cancer screening, significantly boosts the Breast Cancer Score. This includes practices that actively remind patients about screenings and provide educational materials about breast health.

Specialized oncology services are another critical component. While Stoneville might not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to larger cities like Greensboro or Winston-Salem, which do, is essential. The Breast Cancer Score is elevated if there are clear referral pathways to these centers. This includes the ease of transportation, the availability of patient navigators to assist with appointments and insurance, and the presence of support groups for patients and their families. The closer and more accessible these specialized services are, the better the overall score.

Telemedicine is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local PCPs and specialists can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. This can reduce the need for travel, especially for patients who live far from medical centers, and improve access to care. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the ease of use, and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology are all factors that contribute to the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for breast cancer patients. A diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or women's health, is essential. Does the community have support groups? Are there resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of cancer? The presence of these resources significantly boosts the Breast Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the availability of information about breast cancer resources is important. Are local practices and hospitals actively promoting breast cancer awareness? Do they provide educational materials, such as brochures, websites, or social media content, about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment? A community that prioritizes patient education and awareness will generally have a higher Breast Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the area are important to recognize. Identifying practices that excel in specific areas, such as patient communication, personalized care, or the use of innovative technologies, can highlight best practices and provide valuable insights. These practices can serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area. Analyzing patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable information about the quality of care provided by different practices.

Finally, the Breast Cancer Score is also influenced by the overall health of the community. Factors such as access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and the prevalence of other chronic diseases can indirectly impact breast cancer outcomes. A community that prioritizes overall health and wellness will likely have a higher Breast Cancer Score.

In conclusion, assessing the Breast Cancer Score for Stoneville, NC (ZIP Code 27048) requires a comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, specialized oncology services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community health factors. While this analysis provides a general overview, a detailed assessment requires data collection and analysis.