27504, Benson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27504, Benson, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.25 percent of the residents in 27504 has some form of health insurance. 39.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 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 27504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,075 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,879 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,129 health care providers accessible to residents in 27504, Benson, North Carolina.

Breast cancer care access and quality are paramount concerns for residents, and understanding the landscape within a specific geographic area is crucial. This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer-related services for residents of ZIP code 27504 (Clayton, NC) and the primary care environment in Benson, NC, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, will highlight strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, focusing on factors impacting early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is early detection. This begins with accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) who can provide routine screenings, such as mammograms, and guide patients through the diagnostic process. In Benson, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau would be needed to determine the exact ratio for Benson. However, a general assessment can be made. The area is predominantly rural, and rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. This can lead to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings.

Within ZIP code 27504, the situation is likely influenced by its proximity to Clayton and the larger Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area. This proximity may provide access to a broader network of healthcare providers, including specialists. However, it's crucial to investigate the specific practices within the zip code and their capacity. Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients? Do they offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns? Do they actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network? The answers to these questions form a significant portion of the Breast Cancer Score.

Standout practices in the area would be those that excel in several key areas. These include a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including regular mammogram referrals and patient education. They should also have robust systems for tracking patients, ensuring they receive timely follow-up appointments and test results. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including genetic counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer, would be highly valued. The presence of a dedicated breast health navigator, a professional who guides patients through the complex healthcare system, would significantly improve the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and even some forms of physical therapy. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, would receive a higher score. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including ease of use and security, is also a key consideration. Does the platform integrate with the practice's electronic health records (EHR) system? Are patients provided with adequate technical support?

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, would be highly regarded. The accessibility of these services, including cost and appointment availability, is also a factor. Are support groups available locally, and are they tailored to the specific needs of breast cancer patients?

The Breast Cancer Score for a particular practice is also influenced by its commitment to patient education. Does the practice provide patients with clear and concise information about breast cancer, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are educational materials available in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of the patient population? Patient education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and actively participate in their care. Practices that prioritize patient education demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

Furthermore, the score would consider the practice's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, the ease of communication with the practice, and the availability of after-hours care. A practice that is readily accessible and responsive to patient inquiries would receive a higher score. Patient satisfaction surveys, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

For the primary care environment in Benson, the same factors apply, but the assessment might be more challenging due to the potentially limited number of practices. The score would reflect the overall availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided, and the availability of supportive services. The proximity to larger healthcare facilities in surrounding towns or cities would also be a consideration.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score is a multifaceted assessment that considers various aspects of care. It’s not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation of access, quality, and patient-centeredness. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education initiatives, a more informed understanding of the healthcare landscape emerges. This information is crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in detail, consider using CartoChrome maps. They provide a powerful platform for mapping healthcare resources, identifying underserved areas, and gaining a deeper understanding of access to care.