27544, Kittrell, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 27544 has some form of health insurance. 42.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.11 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 27544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 963 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 882 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,678 health care providers accessible to residents in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Kittrell, NC (ZIP Code 27544)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, within a specific geographic region requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27544 (Kittrell, NC) and its surrounding primary care landscape, evaluating factors relevant to breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, encompassing physician availability, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately aiming to guide residents toward optimal care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. In Kittrell, a critical assessment involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. This directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, diminishing it if access is limited. Data sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential for determining this ratio accurately. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the distribution of primary care providers within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity. Are they clustered in one area, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more remote locations?

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating practices within and around Kittrell requires considering several factors. Does the practice offer comprehensive preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings like mammograms? Do they employ electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing with specialists? Are they actively involved in patient education about breast cancer risk factors and self-examination techniques? These elements contribute to a higher Breast Cancer Score, as they indicate a proactive and patient-centered approach to care. The presence of board-certified physicians, adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, and participation in quality improvement initiatives all enhance a practice's standing.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly reshaped healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Kittrell. The availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, including oncologists and radiologists, can dramatically improve access to care. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, making it easier for patients to adhere to treatment plans. The Breast Cancer Score benefits from telemedicine integration, as it suggests increased accessibility and convenience, crucial for patients undergoing treatment or managing their health. The analysis should identify practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the platforms used.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is vital for patients' well-being. The analysis must investigate the availability of these resources within and around Kittrell. Are there mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are support groups readily accessible? The presence of these resources significantly elevates the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the practices serving the Kittrell area. This involves evaluating their patient satisfaction scores, the types of services they offer, and their integration of technology. Do they actively participate in community outreach programs focused on breast cancer awareness and prevention? Do they have a dedicated patient navigator or care coordinator to help patients navigate the healthcare system? Practices that excel in these areas deserve recognition, contributing to a higher Breast Cancer Score. The analysis should highlight these practices and their specific strengths, providing valuable information for residents seeking care.

Data on breast cancer incidence and mortality rates within the 27544 ZIP code and surrounding areas is crucial. This data can be obtained from sources like the North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics and the National Cancer Institute. Comparing these rates to state and national averages provides context for the Breast Cancer Score. A higher incidence or mortality rate, even with excellent healthcare infrastructure, could indicate underlying environmental factors or lifestyle issues. This information is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the availability of specialized breast cancer care. While primary care is the gateway, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should identify the nearest hospitals and cancer centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services, including surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. Proximity to these resources and the ease of access significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The final Breast Cancer Score is not a single number but a composite assessment based on all the factors discussed. The score should be presented in a clear and understandable format, perhaps using a rating system or a color-coded map. The analysis should also include recommendations for improving healthcare access and quality in the Kittrell area. This could include suggestions for increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score analysis for Kittrell, NC, is a complex undertaking that requires a thorough examination of the healthcare landscape. It is crucial to assess physician-to-patient ratios, evaluate practice quality, analyze telemedicine integration, and assess mental health resources. This detailed analysis provides valuable insights into the quality of breast cancer care available in the area.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and resources in Kittrell, NC, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform offers a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.