27295, Lexington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27295, Lexington, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.41 percent of the residents in 27295 has some form of health insurance. 36.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.92 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 27295 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27295. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,030 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 27295, Lexington, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lexington, NC (ZIP Code 27295)

This analysis assesses the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care within ZIP code 27295 (Lexington, North Carolina), focusing on primary care physician availability, specific physician practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. Early detection and prompt referrals are crucial. In Lexington, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching the current ratio within the 27295 ZIP code is essential. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau are necessary to establish a baseline. This data, combined with information on physician specialties and board certifications, forms the initial score.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Does the local healthcare system actively promote breast cancer screenings? Do physicians routinely discuss family history and risk factors with their patients? Are there established referral pathways to specialized breast cancer centers? Assessing these factors requires examining the practices of individual primary care providers. This involves reviewing online patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), assessing the availability of patient education materials, and investigating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track screening compliance.

Identifying standout practices is vital. Some practices may excel in early detection, patient education, or coordination of care. For example, a practice with a dedicated nurse navigator who guides patients through the screening and diagnostic process would receive a higher score. Practices that proactively reach out to patients for overdue screenings also demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. Conversely, practices with consistently negative patient feedback regarding communication, wait times, or the perceived thoroughness of examinations would negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Lexington. The adoption of telemedicine for breast cancer care, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, is a key indicator of a forward-thinking healthcare system. The analysis should evaluate the availability of telehealth options among primary care physicians and specialists within the area. Are virtual appointments offered for routine check-ups and discussing test results? Are there telemedicine options for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments? Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their breast cancer care protocols would receive a higher score.

Mental health is an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients require access to mental health support. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources for breast cancer patients in Lexington. Are there on-site counselors or therapists within primary care practices or cancer centers? Are referrals readily available to mental health professionals specializing in oncology? Does the local healthcare system partner with support groups or organizations that provide emotional support and guidance? Practices that prioritize mental health support, either through internal resources or strong referral networks, would significantly enhance their score.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, primary care quality, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – provides a holistic "Breast Cancer Score" for Lexington, NC. The score, however, is not a static number. It is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape, subject to change as new practices emerge, technologies are adopted, and resources are allocated.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer care within a reasonable distance of Lexington. Are there accredited breast cancer centers offering comprehensive services, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology? The proximity and accessibility of these specialized centers are critical for ensuring timely and effective treatment. The analysis should assess the travel time to these centers, considering the potential impact on patient access and convenience.

Finally, the analysis should consider the diversity of the healthcare workforce. Does the local healthcare system reflect the diversity of the population it serves? The presence of physicians and staff from diverse backgrounds can improve cultural competency and enhance the patient experience.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a tool for informing patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It highlights areas of strength and identifies areas for improvement. By understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Lexington, stakeholders can work together to enhance access, improve quality, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lexington, NC, including physician locations, facility locations, and potential gaps in care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-driven visualization of healthcare resources, allowing you to explore the information presented in this analysis in a spatial context.