27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 27312 has some form of health insurance. 34.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.54 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 27312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27312. An estimate of 19 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,669 health care providers accessible to residents in 27312, Pittsboro, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pittsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27312)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 27312, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike. The analysis will focus on Pittsboro, NC, the primary municipality within this ZIP code.

**Primary Care Availability: A Foundation for Early Detection**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Pittsboro, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs), the patient-to-physician ratio, and the presence of same-day or next-day appointment availability. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and local healthcare directories are crucial sources for this information. A low patient-to-physician ratio (ideally, below the national average) indicates better access. High availability of appointments is also a positive indicator, allowing for timely screenings and consultations. The analysis will also consider the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community health centers, which often serve a broader patient population and offer comprehensive services, including preventative care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: Gauging Access to Care**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. The analysis will compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 27312 to both the state and national averages. This comparison helps determine whether Pittsboro residents have adequate access to primary care physicians, crucial for initial screenings and referrals. Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, in the immediate vicinity or within a reasonable travel distance. Proximity to specialized care is a significant factor in the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

**Standout Practices: Identifying Excellence in Care**

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria: the adoption of evidence-based breast cancer screening guidelines, the availability of on-site mammography services, the integration of patient navigation programs, and the provision of comprehensive care coordination. Practices that actively promote screening, offer convenient access to imaging, and facilitate seamless referrals to specialists are likely to score higher. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, if available, will also be considered. Practices with a strong focus on patient education and preventative care will be prioritized.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Reach and Convenience**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialists in 27312. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals will be viewed favorably. Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, and those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. The availability of telemedicine can significantly impact the overall "Breast Cancer Score" by improving access to consultations, support, and education.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on mental health. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the community. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients and survivors. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or cancer centers is a positive indicator. Access to these resources is crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with breast cancer, contributing to a more holistic approach to care.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be based on a comprehensive review of publicly available data, including information from the North Carolina Medical Board, local healthcare directories, hospital websites, and patient reviews (where available). The methodology will involve assigning weighted scores to each of the factors discussed above, reflecting their relative importance in breast cancer care. The weighting will consider the significance of each factor in early detection, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive patient support. The final score will be a composite metric, providing a clear assessment of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare in Pittsboro.

**Specific Challenges and Opportunities in Pittsboro**

Pittsboro, as a smaller community, may face specific challenges in providing comprehensive breast cancer care. These challenges could include a limited number of specialists, longer travel times to specialized facilities, and potential gaps in mental health resources. However, the community also has opportunities. The presence of a strong primary care base, the potential for telemedicine adoption, and the development of community-based support programs can all contribute to a positive "Breast Cancer Score." The analysis will identify these challenges and opportunities, offering recommendations for improvement.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Pittsboro (ZIP code 27312) will provide a valuable assessment of the current state of breast cancer-related healthcare. The analysis will highlight strengths and weaknesses, informing residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The goal is to promote improved access to care, early detection, and comprehensive support for individuals affected by breast cancer.

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