27514, Chapel Hill, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27514, Chapel Hill, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.79 percent of the residents in 27514 has some form of health insurance. 16.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.71 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 27514 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,520 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 253 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27514. An estimate of 139 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,632 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30,777 health care providers accessible to residents in 27514, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Chapel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 27514)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within Chapel Hill, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27514), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician resources, and supportive services. The aim is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall strength of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing this critical health concern. This score is not a single number, but a composite evaluation based on several key factors, each contributing to a patient's experience and the likelihood of positive outcomes.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Chapel Hill, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial element. Assessing this involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within the 27514 ZIP code. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, can be analyzed to estimate this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The analysis must also consider the distribution of these physicians – are they concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating "healthcare deserts" within the ZIP code? Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by these practices is a critical factor. Practices that are consistently accepting new patients demonstrate a commitment to serving the community and are an indicator of a healthy healthcare environment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as regular breast cancer screening recommendations, and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination. EHRs allow for seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, ensuring that patient information is readily available and that care plans are effectively implemented. The analysis will examine the prevalence of these practices within the 27514 ZIP code, using publicly available data and potentially surveying local practices to gauge their adherence to best practices.

Identifying standout practices within Chapel Hill is a key component of this analysis. These practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care, including not only screening and diagnosis but also patient education and support. This could involve practices that have a dedicated nurse navigator to guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, or those that offer on-site mammography services, enhancing convenience and potentially improving early detection rates. The analysis will identify and highlight these practices, providing a valuable resource for patients seeking the best possible care.

The increasing prevalence of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on breast cancer care is significant. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists within the 27514 ZIP code. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that effectively utilize telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within Chapel Hill, including the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. This includes assessing the proximity of these resources to primary care practices and hospitals, as well as the availability of mental health services that are integrated into the overall care plan. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care and can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care is also critical. This includes the presence of breast surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists within the 27514 ZIP code or in nearby areas. The analysis will assess the number of specialists available, their expertise, and their affiliations with local hospitals. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, is essential for providing comprehensive and coordinated care. The analysis will also consider the availability of specialized services, such as genetic counseling and access to clinical trials.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Chapel Hill (ZIP Code 27514) will be a synthesis of these factors. It will not be a single number but rather a nuanced assessment that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This assessment will serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing insights into the areas where improvements are needed and identifying best practices that can be replicated. It will also provide a framework for ongoing monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that the healthcare system in Chapel Hill continues to meet the evolving needs of patients with breast cancer.

This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Chapel Hill, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. The goal is to promote early detection, effective treatment, and compassionate support for all individuals affected by breast cancer.