27310, Oak Ridge, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27310, Oak Ridge, North Carolina is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.96 percent of the residents in 27310 has some form of health insurance. 18.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.79 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 27310 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,442 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27310. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,155 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,659 health care providers accessible to residents in 27310, Oak Ridge, North Carolina.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27310 and Primary Care Availability in Oak Ridge**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP code 27310, focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer prevention, detection, and support. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Oak Ridge, North Carolina, is the specific geographical area of focus. This assessment aims to inform residents about the resources available to them and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of a robust breast cancer care system begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection and preventative measures are crucial, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients. In ZIP code 27310, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings and education. Data from local health authorities and insurance providers would be essential to establish a precise ratio for this area. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will be utilized to estimate the population within the ZIP code.

Standout practices within the area will be evaluated based on several criteria. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings (mammograms, clinical breast exams) and patient education, will receive higher scores. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray capabilities, further enhances the convenience and efficiency of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication, shared decision-making, and a welcoming environment, will also be highly regarded. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms and local community surveys, will be integrated into the assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals will be viewed favorably. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing educational resources about breast cancer risk factors and prevention strategies. The availability of telehealth appointments for patients in 27310, and the types of telehealth services offered, will be a key indicator.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer, or even the fear of the disease, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, will receive higher scores. This includes access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The availability of resources to address anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns is critical for supporting patients throughout their journey. The presence of mental health resources will be assessed based on publicly available information and practice websites.

The Breast Cancer Score will be a composite measure, considering all the factors mentioned above. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance to patient care. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of preventative services will be given significant weight. Telemedicine adoption and mental health integration will also contribute substantially to the score. The final score will provide a relative ranking of the primary care physicians in ZIP code 27310, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each practice.

The assessment will also consider the overall primary care availability in Oak Ridge. This includes the number of practices, the types of services offered, and the geographic distribution of physicians. The goal is to determine if there are any underserved areas within the community. The analysis will consider the accessibility of primary care practices for residents of Oak Ridge, considering factors such as transportation options and distance to the nearest practice.

The analysis will focus on the availability of breast cancer screening services within the area. This includes the availability of mammography services and the accessibility of these services for patients. The analysis will also consider the availability of breast cancer specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, within a reasonable distance of Oak Ridge. The analysis will assess the availability of resources for patients who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, including support groups and educational programs.

This Breast Cancer Score analysis will not only inform residents about the available resources but also identify areas for improvement. The findings can be used to advocate for increased access to care, improved screening programs, and enhanced mental health support. The analysis will also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, allowing them to identify best practices and improve the quality of care they provide.

To further explore the data and visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize the location of primary care physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities in ZIP code 27310 and the surrounding areas. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.