27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27340 has some form of health insurance. 25.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 27340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27340. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,445 health care providers accessible to residents in 27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Saxapahaw, NC (ZIP Code 27340)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within ZIP code 27340, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Saxapahaw, NC, and assesses the resources available for breast cancer patients. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon strong primary care. PCPs are the gatekeepers to early detection and referral. Assessing the PCP landscape in Saxapahaw is crucial. The first metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate this ratio. The analysis must consider the geographic distribution of these physicians, as proximity is critical for residents, especially those with mobility issues.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is also significant. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive preventative care, including breast cancer screenings? Look for practices that emphasize patient education and shared decision-making. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms, can offer insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience. Practices that proactively engage in patient outreach, such as sending reminders for mammograms, are more likely to contribute to early detection.

The emergence of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Saxapahaw is a critical factor. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for routine checkups, medication management, or post-operative follow-up? Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, especially for patients living far from medical centers or those with mobility limitations. It can also improve access to specialists located outside of the immediate area. The "Breast Cancer Score" must reflect the availability and accessibility of telemedicine options.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing experiences. The availability of mental health resources is paramount. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Does the PCP practice have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there local support groups for breast cancer survivors? The presence of integrated mental health services within the healthcare system directly impacts the patient's overall well-being and treatment adherence. The analysis should identify and evaluate the accessibility of these resources within the community.

Another critical element is the proximity and accessibility of specialized breast cancer care. While Saxapahaw may not have its own oncology centers, the analysis must assess the proximity to comprehensive cancer centers in nearby cities like Chapel Hill or Durham. This includes evaluating transportation options, such as public transportation or patient assistance programs that provide transportation to appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" must reflect the ease with which patients can access these specialized services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance. Cancer treatment can be incredibly expensive. Are there programs available to help patients with the costs of treatment, medication, and transportation? This may involve identifying local and national organizations that provide financial aid or connect patients with resources. The analysis should also consider the availability of insurance coverage options and the practices' acceptance of various insurance plans.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient navigation services. A patient navigator helps guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, explaining treatment options, and providing emotional support. Practices that offer patient navigation services often have better patient outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. The presence of these services should be a positive factor in the "Breast Cancer Score."

Evaluating the practices within the ZIP code requires a deep dive. This includes examining the websites of local practices, reviewing online patient testimonials, and potentially conducting phone interviews or surveys. The analysis should identify standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive support services. These practices should be highlighted as models of excellence.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should be a dynamic assessment. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and new technologies and treatment options are continually emerging. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect these changes. The score should also be transparent, clearly outlining the methodology and data sources used in the assessment.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 27340 would be a composite of these factors. It would reflect the overall availability and quality of breast cancer care in the area. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a more supportive environment for patients. A lower score would highlight areas that require improvement.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to empower residents of Saxapahaw with information about the healthcare resources available to them. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the community.

To visualize this data and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to identify areas with limited access to care and to visualize the relationships between different healthcare providers and resources.