27344, Siler City, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27344, Siler City, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.02 percent of the residents in 27344 has some form of health insurance. 38.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.73 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 27344 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27344. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 463 health care providers accessible to residents in 27344, Siler City, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Siler City, NC (ZIP Code 27344)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Siler City, North Carolina (ZIP code 27344) necessitates a multifaceted approach. It goes beyond simply listing doctors; it involves evaluating the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to women in the community. This analysis, therefore, aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective, considering several key factors.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Siler City, the availability of PCPs is a critical determinant of the overall "Breast Cancer Score." A robust primary care network facilitates early detection through routine screenings and provides a crucial point of contact for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. The physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more accessible system, allowing for proactive preventative care.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the frequency with which PCPs perform breast exams, their adherence to current screening guidelines (e.g., mammography recommendations), and their ability to educate patients about risk factors and self-examination techniques. The presence of practices that proactively reach out to patients for screenings, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, would significantly elevate the "Breast Cancer Score."

Specialist availability is another crucial component. The proximity and accessibility of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists are vital for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The ability to quickly access these specialists for diagnosis, treatment planning, and surgical intervention is essential. Travel time to these specialists is a significant factor in Siler City, as rural communities often face challenges in accessing specialized medical care. The presence of a dedicated breast care center, offering a multidisciplinary approach with coordinated care, would be a major asset, significantly boosting the "Breast Cancer Score."

Telemedicine adoption is a transformative element in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups via telemedicine can dramatically improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine for these purposes would receive a higher score. This includes offering virtual consultations for initial assessments, discussing treatment plans, and providing post-operative follow-up.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in cancer-related issues is vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to qualified providers, would contribute positively to the "Breast Cancer Score." The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, also enhances the overall well-being of patients.

Standout practices in Siler City would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that prioritize early detection, provide patient education, offer coordinated care with specialists, embrace telemedicine, and integrate mental health services. These practices would be those that consistently achieve positive patient outcomes and actively engage with the community to promote breast health awareness.

Furthermore, the availability of patient navigation services can greatly improve the patient experience. A patient navigator can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Practices that employ patient navigators would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient-centered care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" would also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and the availability of financial aid programs, such as those offered by local hospitals or cancer organizations, is crucial for ensuring that all patients can access the care they need. Practices that actively inform patients about these resources would contribute positively to the score.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" is not static. It requires ongoing evaluation and improvement. Regular audits of screening rates, patient satisfaction surveys, and feedback from healthcare providers are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the community receives the best possible care. The willingness of healthcare providers to participate in quality improvement initiatives would be a positive factor.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Siler City, NC (ZIP code 27344) is a dynamic assessment reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care. It considers primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the commitment of healthcare providers to providing patient-centered care. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a realistic view of the breast cancer landscape.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Siler City, including the location of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome.