27053, Westfield, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27053, Westfield, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.59 percent of the residents in 27053 has some form of health insurance. 34.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.80 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 27053 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27053. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 760 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,392 health care providers accessible to residents in 27053, Westfield, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Westfield, NC (ZIP Code 27053)

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Westfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27053) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and ongoing management, alongside the broader healthcare ecosystem. We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care.

Westfield, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. One significant factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings like mammograms. Determining the precise ratio for this specific ZIP code requires accessing data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, cross-referencing the number of practicing primary care physicians with the population of 27053. This preliminary step is essential for establishing a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices within the area. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive preventative care, including breast cancer screenings, patient education, and referrals to specialists? Identifying standout practices requires gathering information on their services, patient reviews (while taking their inherent subjectivity into account), and accreditations. It is crucial to determine if these practices have dedicated resources for breast health, such as nurses specializing in women's health or partnerships with local cancer centers.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical consideration. In a rural area like Westfield, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services remotely. The extent of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in 27053 is a key indicator of accessibility. Are practices offering virtual appointments? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies for patients undergoing treatment or recovery? Assessing the ease of use, technological infrastructure, and patient satisfaction with telemedicine services is crucial.

The mental health aspect of breast cancer care is often overlooked but is incredibly important. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within Westfield and the surrounding areas is therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or women's health. Are there support groups available? Do primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers?

Further, understanding the referral pathways is key. How readily do primary care physicians in 27053 refer patients to specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists? Is there a well-established network of specialists within a reasonable distance, or do patients need to travel significant distances for specialized care? The efficiency and effectiveness of these referral pathways directly impact the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also relevant. Do practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and information sharing between providers? Are patients able to access their medical records online? The use of technology can improve care coordination, reduce errors, and empower patients to actively participate in their healthcare.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the availability of patient education materials. Do primary care practices provide patients with information about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are these materials available in multiple languages, if necessary? Patient education is essential for promoting early detection and informed decision-making.

The financial aspect of healthcare is also a significant factor. Access to affordable healthcare, including insurance coverage and financial assistance programs, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Are there resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of insurance and access financial assistance programs?

Finally, the overall community support system plays a role. Are there local organizations that provide support services to breast cancer patients, such as transportation assistance, support groups, or financial aid? A strong community support system can help patients cope with the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of breast cancer.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Westfield, NC (27053) is complex. It requires considering factors beyond the mere presence of doctors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, referral pathways, technology integration, patient education, financial assistance, and community support all contribute to the overall score. A comprehensive analysis would involve gathering data from various sources, conducting surveys, and potentially interviewing patients and healthcare providers.
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