27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.30 percent of the residents in 27109 has some form of health insurance. 4.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.17 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 27109 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 674 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 96 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27109. An estimate of 74 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,551 health care providers accessible to residents in 27109, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Winston Salem (27109)

Analyzing breast cancer care within the 27109 ZIP code of Winston Salem requires a multi-faceted approach, evaluating not just the availability of oncologists, but also the broader healthcare ecosystem supporting patients throughout their journey. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced 'Breast Cancer Score' for the area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Winston Salem, and specifically within the 27109 ZIP code, assessing primary care availability is crucial. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita. A higher ratio of PCPs to residents generally indicates better access to preventative screenings, early detection, and ongoing support. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and local health departments would be essential to calculate this ratio accurately. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs needs consideration. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving underserved pockets within the ZIP code?

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. Does the primary care system actively promote and facilitate breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms? Do PCPs have established referral pathways to specialists, ensuring timely and efficient access to oncologists and surgeons? Assessing these aspects requires analyzing patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing practice protocols, and examining the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns.

Once a diagnosis is made, the availability and quality of oncology services become paramount. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio for oncologists within the 27109 ZIP code is critical. This involves identifying the number of practicing oncologists specializing in breast cancer and comparing it to the estimated number of individuals diagnosed with the disease in the area. A lower ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, delaying treatment, and impacting overall outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the expertise and specialization of oncologists are crucial. Are there oncologists specializing in specific subtypes of breast cancer, such as HER2-positive or triple-negative breast cancer? Do practices offer multidisciplinary care teams, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer? The presence of such teams enhances the coordination of care and ensures patients receive comprehensive support throughout their treatment.

Several practices in the 27109 ZIP code likely stand out in providing excellent breast cancer care. These practices may demonstrate superior patient outcomes, high patient satisfaction scores, and a commitment to innovation. Identifying these "standout" practices requires examining publicly available data, such as hospital ratings, patient reviews, and professional awards. Further investigation into their practices, including their use of advanced technologies, their commitment to clinical trials, and their integration of supportive services, would reveal the factors contributing to their success.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in oncology. Its adoption within the 27109 ZIP code can significantly impact patient access to care, especially for those facing mobility challenges or residing in geographically isolated areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice workflows. Practices embracing telemedicine can offer greater flexibility, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience.

Breast cancer treatment often involves significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Does the 27109 ZIP code have sufficient mental health professionals to meet the needs of breast cancer patients? Are these resources integrated into the oncology practices, ensuring easy access for patients? The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable peer support and reduce feelings of isolation.

The integration of mental health services into the treatment pathway is crucial. Does the practice actively screen for mental health concerns? Are referrals to mental health professionals readily available? The availability of these services can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment adherence.

Evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for the 27109 ZIP code requires synthesizing all these factors. It's not simply about the number of doctors, but about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the availability of supportive resources. A comprehensive score would consider the physician-to-patient ratios for both PCPs and oncologists, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This score would provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, enabling informed decision-making for patients and healthcare providers.

The data needed for this analysis is often complex and spatially distributed. To visualize and understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and disease prevalence, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, highlighting areas with high and low access to care, identifying potential disparities, and informing strategic planning for improving breast cancer care in Winston Salem.