27531, Goldsboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27531, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 1.82 percent of the residents in 27531 has some form of health insurance. 1.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 1.82 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 27531 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27531. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,162 health care providers accessible to residents in 27531, Goldsboro, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Goldsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27531)

This analysis assesses the quality of breast cancer care within Goldsboro, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 27531. It considers factors impacting patient access, physician availability, and support services, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' perspective. The primary focus is on primary care availability, as this is often the initial point of contact for patients and a crucial component of early detection and ongoing care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Goldsboro, the availability of primary care physicians, including those who may perform initial breast cancer screenings or referrals, is a key element. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, a general assessment can be made by examining the number of primary care practices and the estimated population within ZIP code 27531. Areas with a lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, may indicate challenges in accessing timely appointments and potentially longer wait times for screenings and specialist referrals.

Standout practices in Goldsboro are those that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, such as routine mammograms, clinical breast exams, and timely referrals to specialists like oncologists and surgeons. Identifying these standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), the presence of dedicated breast health specialists, and patient satisfaction scores. Patient reviews, if available, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the clarity of communication, the compassion of the staff, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and mental health support. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Goldsboro practices can be evaluated by determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce barriers to accessing timely care.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant emotional and psychological impacts on patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups specifically for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer centers. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Goldsboro, NC, would be determined by synthesizing the data from the above factors. This score would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care within the community. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater availability of qualified physicians, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the integration of mental health support services. A lower score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely care, limited resources, and a need for improvement in various areas.

To improve the 'Breast Cancer Score' and overall patient outcomes, several strategies could be implemented. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area, particularly those with experience in breast health, would improve physician-to-patient ratios. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine among local practices would enhance access to care and reduce travel burdens. Strengthening partnerships between primary care practices, cancer centers, and mental health providers would ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to patient care. Investing in community outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer screening and early detection would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, is essential. Assessing the presence of these specialists within the community, or the ease of access to them through referral networks, is a vital component of the overall score. The proximity of these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The role of patient navigation services is also crucial. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support, guidance, and advocacy. The availability of patient navigation services can improve patient satisfaction, reduce anxiety, and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The integration of genetic counseling services is another important consideration. Genetic testing can identify individuals at increased risk for breast cancer, allowing for personalized screening and prevention strategies. The availability of genetic counseling services and the ability to access genetic testing can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Finally, the availability of financial assistance programs and support services is vital. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing necessary care. Assessing the availability of financial assistance programs, such as grants and charitable organizations, can provide a more complete picture of the resources available to patients.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Goldsboro, NC (ZIP code 27531) is multifaceted, encompassing physician availability, technology adoption, mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. A thorough analysis requires detailed data collection and evaluation.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Goldsboro, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.