27568, Pine Level, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.91 percent of the residents in 27568 has some form of health insurance. 43.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.03 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 27568 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 459 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27568. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,285 health care providers accessible to residents in 27568, Pine Level, North Carolina.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pine Level, NC (ZIP Code 27568)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care availability within Pine Level, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27568), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score isn't a single number but a composite evaluation considering various factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, quality of care, and support services. The goal is to provide residents with a clearer understanding of the resources available in their community.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is a strong primary care network. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, playing a vital role in screening, early detection, and referral. In Pine Level, assessing primary care availability is paramount. This involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, which directly impacts access. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care. While precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio specific to Pine Level is difficult to obtain without detailed local surveys, we can infer based on county-level data and the population density of the town. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially impacting access to primary care.

Standout practices within the area are identified by their commitment to preventative care, patient education, and seamless coordination of care. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams, are considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that integrate patient education materials, covering topics like self-exams, risk factors, and lifestyle modifications, demonstrate a proactive approach to patient empowerment. The ability to coordinate care efficiently, including referrals to specialists like oncologists and surgeons, is a key indicator of a high-quality practice. These practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and ensure continuity of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel time, and offer convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for consultations, prescription refills, and remote monitoring are likely to score higher in our assessment. The availability of telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care, easing the burden of frequent travel.

Beyond medical care, mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for supporting patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or readily provide referrals to mental health providers within the community demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pine Level is also influenced by the availability of specialized services. This includes access to oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast cancer, radiation therapy centers, and diagnostic imaging facilities. Proximity to these services is a significant factor, as travel time can impact patient convenience and potentially affect treatment outcomes. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, involving medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, is a strong indicator of comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the availability of financial assistance programs and patient navigation services can significantly impact the overall patient experience. Financial burdens associated with cancer treatment can be substantial. Practices that provide information about financial assistance programs, such as grants and payment plans, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the economic challenges faced by patients. Patient navigators, who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing resources, play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes.

The assessment also considers the quality of care provided by the physicians. This includes factors such as the physicians' experience, board certifications, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. The availability of patient satisfaction surveys and feedback mechanisms can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care. Practices that actively seek and respond to patient feedback demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a multifaceted evaluation. It considers not only the availability of medical resources but also the quality of care, the support services offered, and the overall patient experience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care system in Pine Level, NC.

While a precise, quantifiable score requires extensive data collection and analysis, the factors discussed provide a framework for understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in this specific community. Residents can use this information to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved access to resources.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pine Level, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of your community's healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.