27371, Troy, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27371, Troy, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.23 percent of the residents in 27371 has some form of health insurance. 40.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.37 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 27371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,236 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27371. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,444 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 160 health care providers accessible to residents in 27371, Troy, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Troy, NC (ZIP Code 27371)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 27371 (Troy, North Carolina), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the overall healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering key factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment is intended to be informative and to guide individuals seeking care, acknowledging that a complex interplay of variables affects the quality of care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection and consistent primary care. Therefore, the first crucial element in our score is primary care physician availability. Troy, like many rural communities, may face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. We need to assess the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates for 27371, would provide the raw numbers. However, this data alone is insufficient. We need to consider factors such as physician specialization (are there enough PCPs who are comfortable with breast health screening and initial referrals?), insurance acceptance (do the physicians accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid?), and appointment wait times. Long wait times can delay crucial screenings and referrals, negatively impacting the overall score.

The analysis must then identify standout practices within the area. This requires a deep dive into individual practice profiles. We'll examine practices' commitment to preventive care, including the frequency and type of breast cancer screening offered (mammograms, clinical breast exams). Are they proactive in reminding patients about screenings? Do they have established protocols for referrals to specialists (radiologists, surgeons, oncologists)? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources on breast health and self-exams, would receive higher marks. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Positive reviews, particularly those highlighting communication, empathy, and thoroughness, contribute positively to the practice's score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations would receive a boost in their score. This is particularly relevant for breast cancer patients who may need frequent check-ups or have mobility challenges. The availability of virtual support groups or educational resources through telemedicine also contributes positively. The analysis will need to ascertain which practices have implemented telemedicine capabilities and to what extent they are utilized.

The mental health component of the score is equally important. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources, both within primary care practices and in the broader community, significantly impacts the overall quality of care. We'll investigate whether practices offer on-site counseling or have established referral networks with mental health professionals. The presence of support groups, either in-person or virtual, is also a positive indicator. Access to mental health services is a critical component of holistic care, and practices that recognize and address this need will be highly rated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the availability of specialized care, even if outside of the immediate ZIP code. While Troy might not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to larger cities like Greensboro or Charlotte, with comprehensive cancer treatment facilities, needs to be factored in. The analysis will assess the ease of access to these facilities. Are there established referral pathways? Do patients have access to transportation assistance if needed? The presence of a cancer center or a strong referral network will significantly improve the score.

The analysis should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for breast cancer patients. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial resources is essential for many patients. We'll investigate whether practices are aware of and can connect patients with relevant financial aid programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. It will not be a single number but a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape. The score will be presented in a way that is easy to understand, with clear explanations of the methodology and the rationale behind the scoring. This analysis aims to empower individuals in Troy, NC, to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improvements in breast cancer care within their community. The score is a snapshot in time, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to maintain its relevance.

The final score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements are needed and celebrating the successes of the local healthcare system. The goal is to improve the quality of care and to make it more accessible to everyone.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Troy, NC, and surrounding areas, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for analyzing geographic data, identifying patterns, and understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Troy, NC.**