27521, Coats, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27521, Coats, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.97 percent of the residents in 27521 has some form of health insurance. 45.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.86 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 27521 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,648 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27521. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,334 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,281 health care providers accessible to residents in 27521, Coats, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27521 and Coats, NC

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 27521, encompassing the town of Coats, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Coats, a small town within 27521, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting often translates to limited access to specialized medical services compared to larger metropolitan areas. The proximity to larger cities like Raleigh and Fayetteville, however, could offer a mitigating factor, providing residents with access to a broader range of healthcare options. Understanding the interplay of these factors is crucial for a realistic assessment.

Primary care availability forms the bedrock of preventative healthcare, including breast cancer screening. In Coats, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita is a critical indicator. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments for routine checkups, mammograms, and referrals to specialists. Conversely, a high ratio, while seemingly positive, might not necessarily translate to superior care if the PCPs are overburdened or lack specialized training in breast health.

Assessing the quality of primary care involves evaluating the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, such as those established by the American Cancer Society or the United States Preventive Services Task Force. This includes examining the frequency of mammogram recommendations, the process for patient education on risk factors, and the efficiency of referral pathways to radiology centers and oncologists. Practices that proactively engage in patient education and follow established protocols are likely to score higher in our analysis.

The presence of standout practices significantly impacts the overall score. These are medical groups or individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This can manifest in various ways: a dedicated breast health center, a multidisciplinary team of specialists (radiologists, surgeons, oncologists), or a strong track record of early detection and positive patient outcomes. Identifying these practices and their specific contributions is essential.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in bridging geographical gaps and improving access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate within 27521 is a key factor. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, results discussions, or even initial consultations for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges deserve recognition. The availability of virtual platforms can enhance convenience and improve patient adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site providers or referral networks, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Coats needs careful consideration. A low ratio can be a double-edged sword. It may indicate a lack of access, but it could also mean that existing physicians are stretched thin, potentially impacting the quality of care. Conversely, a high ratio could signify greater access, but the quality of individual physician care still needs scrutiny. Analyzing the actual patient load of PCPs and specialists is vital for a nuanced understanding.

The availability of mammography services is another critical element. The presence of modern mammography equipment, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the expertise of radiologists in interpreting mammograms are crucial for early detection. The accessibility of these services, considering factors like wait times and insurance coverage, directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The proximity of imaging centers and the efficiency of the scheduling process are also relevant.

The analysis should consider the availability of support groups and patient navigators. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and providing emotional support. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing resources. The presence of these resources significantly enhances the patient experience and improves outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the availability of specialized breast cancer treatments, such as surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center or affiliation with a larger medical network can provide access to advanced treatment options and clinical trials. The ability of local physicians to collaborate with specialists in these areas is also a key factor.

Assessing the overall 'Breast Cancer Score' involves assigning weighted values to each of the factors discussed. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, and adherence to screening guidelines should carry significant weight. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources should also be factored in. The final score will reflect the overall strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment for residents of Coats and the broader 27521 area. This assessment should empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare, understand the resources available to them, and advocate for improvements in breast cancer care within their community. This analysis will be a dynamic process, subject to updates as new data becomes available and as the healthcare landscape evolves.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 27521 and Coats, including the location of medical facilities, the geographic distribution of specialists, and the availability of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services and help you visualize the key factors discussed in this analysis.